The global crisis of democratic legitimacy and the regression of the rule of law have pushed civic space into a downward spiral, with enlargement countries proving especially vulnerable. Weak institutions and geopolitical pressures leave civic actors more exposed to repression, co-optation, and marginalisation. Without a dedicated, context-sensitive approach, the EU risks weakening one of the few remaining sources of democratic resilience.
Today’s civil society in enlargement countries is tomorrow’s EU partners. Their early and structured engagement strengthens democratic integration and the legitimacy of policymaking.
Therefore, the upcoming EU Civil Society Strategy must look beyond member states and empower civil society in enlargement countries – or risk undermining both enlargement policy and the EU’s role as a defender of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law.
A coalition of 59 organizations from the Western Balkans, Eastern Partnership, EU member states, and international think tanks has submitted recommendations to ensure the upcoming EU Civil Society Strategy strengthens and empowers civil society in the enlargement region.
Our key asks:
- Recognize enlargement CSOs as reform drivers & equal partners in EU integration;
- Protect civic space from repressive laws, SLAPPs, surveillance & GONGOs;
- Secure sustainable & accessible funding, beyond IPA, including new EU programmes;
- Guarantee meaningful participation in policymaking, accession & monitoring;
