European Network for CIGS

Civil society under attack

In the European Parliament the Civic Space Report 2025 was presented on the fourth of June. A comprehensie report on how civic space is developing in Europe, or actually how the right of citizens in Europe to free assembly is increasingly attacked.

That civic space is shrinking in ODA countries is something many of us are confronted with. But that civic space in Europe is increasingly under pressure is something quite recent. Civil society organisations from big to small and their activists are confronted with harassment. Even in countries known for their excellent standing on human rights politicians attack these rights. Protesters and activists are intimidated by the police. CSO funding is made increasingly complicated. All in all the situation of civil society in 2025 looks quite grim. There is an urgent need to push back to these developments. You kan read the full report on the website of the European Civic Forum.

 

The capacity building working group focuses on training activities that are organised by the members to strengthen the capacities of CIGS.

The funding working group exchanges practices on processes and procedures for funding of CIGS and their development activities in the global South.

The research working group unveils valuable insights in the CIGS communities and their relevance for sustainable development and in mobilising the public to engage in international solidarity.

The coordination group undertakes action in European matters of relevance for CIGS or for the members of the network. This is the management and the organisations of the network as a whole.