This article introduces the concept of state-constructed third sector, referring to a sector shaped less by welfare gaps or civic mobilization and more by the state. Theories of third sector emergence are largely derived from Western and middle-income contexts and remain undertested in state-led environments. To address this gap, the study analyzes Qatar’s third sector through 40 semi-structured interviews and policy analysis. Drawing on Social Origins Theory and Sociological Institutionalism, it links early charitable practices to the sector’s contemporary rules. Findings show a newly institutionalized sector with active international humanitarian organizations and nationally oriented organizations that rarely engage in advocacy or welfare substitution. Institutionalization occurred through legal reforms, global compliance, and alignment with Qatar National Vision 2030. Within the Social Origins framework, Qatar most closely approximates the statist pathway but constitutes a distinctive rentier variant, in which hydrocarbon wealth enables the state to combine extensive welfare provision with the construction, resourcing, and regulation of a legally distinct and internationally active third sector.

This qualitative study investigates social participation and recognition through volunteering for people with disabilities in Thailand. Using data from 65 participants across five provinces, and employing Social Role Valorization (SRV) as the framework, this study examines how volunteering can transform people with disabilities from recipients of aid into valued social contributors. The results revealed that volunteering can enhance self-esteem, skills development, and community connections. However, significant barriers impede access to valued roles, including societal attitudes, physical environment limitations, and a lack of support. Despite these challenges, many volunteers with disabilities exhibited leadership by participating in volunteering activities and successfully shifting society’s perceptions about their abilities. Nonetheless, acceptance in the broader society remains limited due to insufficient promotion of their social contributions in the media. In conclusion, inclusive volunteering supported by both the private and government sectors is crucial for promoting the valuable social contributions that people with disabilities can provide.