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EU Civil Society Strategy

Justice and fundamental rights

The EU Civil Society Strategy will provide a comprehensive framework for action at EU and Member State level; It will focus on strengthening meaningful engagement and providing support to all civil society actors, whilst including specific actions to address the shrinking civic space for civil society organisations and human rights defenders active in promoting and protecting EU values. It will identify the needs and challenges faced by civil society actors and map measures currently in place that aim to engage in dialogue with and protect them, all the while recognising their important contribution across all EU policy areas.

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Public consultation

ID: 14588

Lobbying Activity

159 responses

Trade Unions Demand EU Action Against Civic Space Threats

EUROPEAN TRADE UNION CONFEDERATION, 5 Sept 2025

The ETUC calls for the EU to develop a robust Civil Society Strategy that actively challenges restrictive laws and facilitates democratic engagement. They emphasize civil society must be protected from disinformation campaigns and orchestrated discrediting attempts. The strategy must respect social dialogue as a separate process without undermining the role of social partners.
This would protect their institutional role and prevent civil society strategy from diluting their negotiating position.
Broader civil society groups lose exclusive recognition if social partners maintain separate privileged status.

Environmental groups demand structured funding and protection in civil society strategy

European Environmental Bureau, 11 Aug 2025

The organizations request structured funding for policy engagement, protection mechanisms for environmental defenders, and permanent civil dialogue with EU institutions. They demand the EU avoid bad practices when consulting civil society and implement measures before policy directions are set.
This would secure their funding streams and formalize their role in EU policymaking.
Business interests lose their current power advantage in EU consultations and policymaking.

WWF urges dedicated EU funding programme for civil society

WWF European Policy Programme, 2 Sept 2025

WWF calls for a stand-alone EU funding programme for civil society, increased operating grants that explicitly include advocacy, and systematic civic space impact assessments across all EU policies. They want the LIFE Programme maintained as key support for environmental groups.
This would secure predictable funding streams and legitimize their advocacy activities.

BEUC urges stable funding and transparent governance for consumer groups

Bureau Européen des Unions de Consommateurs, 4 Aug 2025

BEUC demands stable public funding and a transparent governance framework to balance corporate influence. They call for meaningful participation to ensure consumer interests are not sidelined by simplification agendas.
This strategy would secure the financial and political standing of consumer groups against corporate dominance.
Large corporations would lose their disproportionate influence over EU policy-making processes.

CAN Europe urges EU to protect climate activists' civic space

Climate Action Network Europe, 3 Sept 2025

CAN Europe requests formal recognition of their democratic role and an independent safety mechanism for activists. They also call for guaranteed funding and better access to policymakers.
These measures would ensure financial stability and provide legal protection for their environmental advocacy.
Industrial trade associations could lose their status if the EU restricts the definition of civil society.

ClientEarth calls for EU protection against abusive corporate lawsuits

ClientEarth AISBL, 5 Sept 2025

ClientEarth calls for a binding framework for civil dialogue and structural protections against abusive lawsuits. They demand simplified funding and more equitable access to decision-makers to counter corporate influence.
Simplified funding and legal protections would lower administrative burdens and reduce risks from lawsuits.
Privileged corporate interests would lose their current disproportionate influence over European Union policy-making negotiations.

Eurogroup for Animals urges EU to protect animal rights organisations

Eurogroup for Animals, 2 Sept 2025

The group calls for an EU strategy that treats civil society as an active and equal partner. They request a binding agreement on civil dialogue and a protection framework for defenders against attacks. They also demand systematic civic space impact assessments for all legislative proposals.
The organization would gain increased political influence and secure long-term financial stability through direct funding.
Entities using smear campaigns or abusive lawsuits to silence animal welfare activists would be restricted.

BirdLife Europe urges EU to protect NGOs from smear campaigns

Stichting BirdLife Europe, 5 Sept 2025

The organization calls for a binding agreement to ensure systematic dialogue between EU institutions and civil society. They demand stable, directly managed funding to ensure non-governmental organizations can participate independently in policymaking. They also seek an early warning system to protect activists from repression.
The measures would provide BirdLife with secure funding and formal influence over EU policies.
Governments and companies profiting from environmental crimes would face stricter monitoring and more legal challenges.

Amnesty International urges EU to safeguard European civic space

Transparency International Liaison Office to the European Union, 5 Sept 2025

Amnesty International calls for systematic impact assessments to ensure EU policies support civic space. They propose a fast-track monitoring mechanism and emergency support for organizations under attack. They also request a binding agreement to formalize civil dialogue in policy making.
This would secure long-term funding and legal safeguards for their advocacy and partners.
Member States restricting civic space would face swifter legal consequences and increased oversight.

Friends of the Earth urges robust EU strategy for activists

Friends of the Earth Europe, 5 Sept 2025

They demand a systematic civic space impact assessment for all new EU legislation. They call for a comprehensive protection system for environmental defenders under attack. The group seeks a binding agreement to ensure regular engagement across policy stages.
This would shield the organization from harassment and secure funding for environmental advocacy.
Corporations and repressive governments would lose the ability to silence activists using lawsuits.

Deutsche Umwelthilfe urges EU protection for civil society groups

Deutsche Umwelthilfe e.V., 2 Sept 2025

The group suggests a systematic impact assessment for all regulatory proposals to protect civil society space. They also demand a comprehensive EU protection system providing legal, financial, and psychosocial support.
Enhanced EU oversight would preserve their ability to monitor state compliance with environmental law.
State actors seeking to fast-track projects without public participation would face resistance.

Caritas Europa Calls for Robust EU Civil Society Strategy

Caritas Europa, 15 Aug 2025

Caritas Europa calls for structured mechanisms and longer consultation timelines to include grassroots voices. They advocate for legislative protections and sustainable funding to counter the shrinking civic space. The group suggests assigning a representative from each Commission department to the Civil Society Platform.
This would secure long-term funding and ensure their policy input is formally recognized.
Political groups attempting to restrict civil society would lose their power to silence critics.

European Disability Forum calls for binding EU civil dialogue rules

European Disability Forum, 3 Sept 2025

EDF calls for a binding inter-institutional agreement on civil dialogue and more accessible consultation tools. They also demand increased transparency from the Council and improved funding rules for disability organizations.
These changes would ensure disability organizations can influence legislation on an equal footing while easing financial burdens.
EU institutions and Member States lose the ability to exclude civil society from policy-making through opaque or inaccessible procedures.

Consultation response

CONCORD Europe, 3 Sept 2025

Civil society organisations (CSOs) play a vital role in promoting democracy, social justice, gender equality, human rights, and sustainable development across the world and within the EU. They inform policy-making, develop community-based solutions, provide essential services, and defend the rights…

ILGA-Europe urges EU strategy to protect shrinking civic space

The European Region of the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association, 4 Sept 2025

The organization calls for a coordinated monitoring mechanism to track threats to civic space. They urge the EU to create a protection system for human rights defenders and ensure sustainable funding for advocacy.
This would provide reliable funding and legal safety for LGBTI advocacy groups.
Anti-rights governments face legal action and tighter oversight of their restrictive laws.

Civil Society Europe Urges Binding Strategy to Protect Civic Space

Civil Society Europe, 4 Sept 2025

They demand a binding interinstitutional agreement to guarantee structured civil dialogue across the policy cycle. The group also calls for systematic civic-space impact assessments for all new legislative proposals.
A formal strategy would provide these organizations with greater financial stability and institutional influence.
Governments restricting civic freedoms would face more frequent legal actions and faster monitoring responses.

European Women's Lobby Demands Stronger Civil Society Protections

European Women's Lobby, 27 Aug 2025

They request a long-term strategy to institutionalize dialogue and protect civic space. The lobby advocates for strategic partnerships rather than simple symbolic consultations.
Stable core funding would ensure financial resilience and prevent losing specialized expertise.
Authoritarian governments would lose the power to suppress advocates without financial penalties.

European Patients' Forum urges stable funding for health NGOs

European Patients' Forum (EPF), 5 Sept 2025

EPF calls for institutionalized multiannual operating grants to ensure long-term sustainability. They demand meaningful involvement in policy cycles and protection from legal harassment.
Guaranteed funding and structured dialogue would ensure long-term stability and political influence.
Industry representatives would lose their dominant influence over high-level EU policy meetings.

NABU calls for stronger EU civil society protections and funding

Naturschutzbund Deutschland e.V., 4 Sept 2025

NABU calls for measures to strengthen public participation and legal rights to challenge decisions. They request broad funding in the next EU budget to support advocacy and operations. Additionally, they seek joint charity rules and protection from lawsuits used to silence critics.
This would provide financial security and help balance the influence of corporate lobbyists.
Industrial interest groups would see their lobbying dominance challenged by better-funded environmental advocates.

Sitra proposes European Civic Tech Hub to strengthen democracy

Suomen itsenäisyyden juhlarahasto, 5 Sept 2025

Sitra proposes the establishment of a European Civic Tech Hub for digital participatory tools. They want to combine digital mass participation with deeper engagement to influence policy decisions.
EU-level coordination would help scale the fund's democracy-focused technical initiatives across Europe.
Actors using strategic lawsuits and surveillance would lose power to suppress civil society.

European Public Health Alliance urges EU to restore NGO funding

European Public Health Alliance, 4 Sept 2025

The alliance calls for multi-annual operating grants and recognition of advocacy as eligible for support. They also seek a binding agreement to ensure meaningful participation in decision-making.
Restored funding would ensure long-term sustainability and independence for health advocacy groups.
Commercial interests would lose their dominant influence over high-level European policy meetings.

European Partnership for Democracy calls for robust civil society protections

European Partnership for Democracy, 2 Sept 2025

EPD recommends a strategy based on six principles to ensure an enabling environment. They advocate mainstreaming consultation across all policies and securing flexible, long-term core funding.
This framework provides financial stability and safer conditions for organizations to perform their watchdog functions.
Governments seeking to restrict dissent face stronger monitoring and financial conditionality on EU investments.

German environmentalists demand EU protection against shrinking civic space

Bund für Umwelt und Naturschutz Deutschland e. V., 18 Aug 2025

BUND requests systematic impact assessments of EU laws and increased funding. They demand a protection system for defenders and strict environmental law enforcement.
This would secure the organization's legal standing and vital funding sources.
Member States and political groups restricting NGO activities would face legal challenges.

Eurochild urges EU to protect child rights civil society

Eurochild AISBL, 24 Jul 2025

Eurochild requests institutionalized engagement and co-creation of the proposed Civil Society Platform. They also demand sustainable funding and protection against rising anti-child rights narratives.
These measures would secure their influence in policy-making and ensure long-term financial stability.
Conservative movements promoting traditional family values would face stronger EU-backed opposition.

FIDH demands binding EU strategy to protect shrinking civic space

International Federation for Human Rights, 5 Sept 2025

The organization calls for a systematic civic space impact assessment across all legislative and regulatory proposals. They request a multi-layered EU protection system to provide legal and financial support to defenders under attack. Additionally, they propose a binding Agreement on Civil Dialogue to establish structured practices of engagement.
The group would gain sustainable funding and stronger legal safeguards against political harassment.
Restrictive national governments would lose the ability to suppress dissent without facing EU sanctions.

PICUM urges EU strategy to protect migrant rights defenders

Platform for International Cooperation on Undocumented Migrants, 4 Sept 2025

PICUM calls for an EU protection system supporting human rights defenders. They advocate for binding agreements to ensure participation in EU policy-making. They also seek simplified, direct funding for advocacy and cross-border cooperation.
This would increase financial stability and provide legal safeguards for advocacy work.
National governments seeking to restrict migrant rights advocacy lose their ability to suppress dissent.

Health & Environment Alliance urges stronger EU civil society protections

Health & Environment Alliance, 5 Sept 2025

HEAL calls for a well-resourced strategy and binding commitments for structured civil dialogue with EU institutions. They also request increased funding in the next budget to end competition for reduced resources.
Secured funding and formal dialogue would provide financial stability and guaranteed access to EU decision-making.
Corporate lobbyists may lose their disproportionate access to decision-makers if civil society engagement is prioritized.

Environmental Justice Foundation urges EU to protect civil society

Environmental Justice Foundation, 29 Aug 2025

EJF requests an EU protection mechanism for environmental defenders and sustainable funding. They also want mandatory dialogue requirements and assessments of laws impacting civic space.
This would protect their staff from intimidation and provide financial security for their advocacy.
Entities using legal harassment to suppress dissent would lose their ability to silence critics.

German environmental umbrella DNR urges robust EU civil society protection

Deutscher Naturschutzring, Dachverband der deutschen Natur-, Tier- und Umweltschutzverbände (DNR) e.V., 5 Sept 2025

DNR demands a binding agreement for structured dialogue and systematic assessments of how EU laws impact civic space. They also call for increased funding and legal protection for environmental defenders.
The organization would secure stable funding for advocacy and gain legal protection against harassment and lawsuits.
Politicians and business interests seeking to curb NGO influence or limit protest rights would be constrained.

IPPF EN calls for EU protection of reproductive rights defenders

International Planned Parenthood Federation European Network, 5 Sept 2025

They call for a gender-sensitive protection mechanism and dedicated funding for reproductive rights groups. The strategy must address threats like harassment and shrinking civic space for these advocates.
This framework would provide financial stability and physical safety for organizations facing increasing hostility.
Anti-rights groups would lose the ability to capture public funds and delegitimize SRHR work.

German Bar Association warns EU against overstepping on civil society

Deutscher Anwaltverein (German Bar Association), 13 Aug 2025

The DAV advocates using the Rule of Law Toolbox to protect groups from repression. They argue that legal frameworks for civil society remain an exclusive national competence. The association insists that governmental influence over their work must be strictly limited.
Limiting EU intervention protects the autonomy of professional bodies from centralized regulatory expansion.
The European Commission loses its mandate to create harmonized standards for European civil society organisations.

Environmental Investigation Agency urges EU protection for activists

Environmental Investigation Agency, 5 Sept 2025

EIA requests a binding agreement to establish structured engagement for civil society. They advocate for a comprehensive EU protection system for environmental defenders. The agency seeks systematic civic space impact assessments for all legislative proposals.
This framework would provide investigative activists with legal security and increased funding.
Member States using restrictive laws or abusive lawsuits would face stricter oversight.

Reproductive rights groups demand EU protection from anti-gender attacks

Center for Reproductive Rights, Inc., 5 Sept 2025

The Center for Reproductive Rights calls for a gender-sensitive protection mechanism and early warning system to safeguard health advocates. They also urge the EU to provide sustainable funding and ensure these groups are included in policy-making.
These measures would provide financial stability and better security for reproductive health advocates.
Anti-rights actors lose the ability to capture public funds and delegitimize gender equality organizations.

EU DisinfoLab urges sustainable funding and anti-SLAPP protections

EU DisinfoLab, 4 Sept 2025

They request mandatory compensation for expertise and simplified EU grant processes. They also seek multi-year financial visibility and robust legal support.
These changes would improve their financial sustainability and protect their operational independence.
Litigants who use abusive lawsuits to silence civil society actors would lose.

Eurodiaconia urges binding agreement to protect European civil society

Eurodiaconia, 5 Sept 2025

The group requests a systematic civic space impact assessment for all EU legislative proposals. They call for a binding agreement to ensure civil society is engaged throughout the policy cycle. They also seek increased funding that explicitly includes advocacy as a legitimate activity.
This would provide secure funding and a guaranteed role in the European policy-making process.
National governments would lose the ability to restrict civic space without facing EU-level intervention.

SOLIDAR urges permanent EU dialogue and stronger activist protections

SOLIDAR, 5 Sept 2025

The group wants a permanent EU platform for structured dialogue and an EU-wide mechanism to protect activists. They also request simplified funding rules and higher budgets to support grassroots organizations.
Formalized dialogue and increased funding would solidify their influence and long-term operational stability.
Hostile governments would face increased accountability and enforcement measures for suppressing civil society.

Philea urges EU to create Single Market for Philanthropy

Philanthropy Europe Association, 5 Sept 2025

Philea calls for an enabling environment and a Single Market for Philanthropy. They advocate for a binding framework and systematic civic space impact assessments. They also request predictable support and simplified administrative procedures for civil society funding.
This would eliminate obstacles to cross-border funding and ensure stable tax incentives for foundations.
National governments would face limits on restricting foreign funding or imposing domestic reporting requirements.

Swedish trade unions urge EU to protect civic space

The Swedish Trade Union Confederation, 4 Sept 2025

The Confederation demands genuine social dialogue with unions and recognition of advocacy. They want flexible funding for grassroots actors and a global strategy for rights defenders.
This would guarantee their involvement in social dialogue and secure eligibility for funding.
Governments and groups using restrictive laws or disinformation will face increased resistance.

European Lawyers Urge Protection in New Civil Society Strategy

Council of Bars and Law Societies of Europe, 3 Sept 2025

The CCBE demands that lawyers be recognized as essential civil society actors and protected from rising harassment. They call for the rapid ratification of an international convention to safeguard the legal profession’s independence. They also advocate for better-resourced national legal aid systems and improved consultation processes.
This would provide lawyers with stronger safety guarantees and shield them from potential criminalization.
Authorities seeking to suppress legal challenges or restrict migration assistance would lose political leverage.

European Civic Forum urges EU to protect shrinking civic space

Forum Civique Européen, 22 Aug 2025

The group demands a permanent civil dialogue framework and mandatory civic space impact assessments. They also seek increased funding and better protection for activists.
This would secure long-term financial stability and formalize their influence over EU policymaking.
Anti-liberal groups would be excluded from the new dialogue framework to protect democratic values.

European Movement Ireland urges concrete actions to protect civic space

European Movement Ireland, 5 Sept 2025

The organization requests a protection mechanism including early warning and investigation systems for attacks. They advocate for permanent structured dialogue and accessible funding for small and grassroots groups.
The strategy would protect their advocacy work and provide more stable, accessible funding.
Governments restricting NGO funding would lose legal tools used to stigmatise civil society groups.

Lifelong Learning Platform urges binding agreement on EU civil dialogue

Lifelong Learning Platform, 5 Sept 2025

The organization calls for a binding agreement on civil dialogue and a comprehensive protection system for activists. They also want systematic civic space impact assessments and simplified, increased funding for advocacy.
This would secure more financial resources for their advocacy work and simplify administrative hurdles.
National authorities seeking to limit civic activities would face stronger EU-level intervention and monitoring.

European health groups demand stable funding in EU strategy

European Respiratory Society, 5 Sept 2025

The groups demand sustainable, multi-annual funding and inclusion of advocacy in EU frameworks. They argue predictable resources prevent corporate dominance.
Predictable funding enables these groups to focus on long-term systemic policy impact.
Commercial lobbyists lose their relative advantage if independent voices receive adequate funding.

ERGO Network urges EU to formalize Roma civil dialogue

European Roma Grassroots Organisations Network, 5 Sept 2025

The network requests legal recognition of civil dialogue and a permanent Civil Society Platform. They demand long-term core funding and simplified administrative procedures to support grassroots Roma organizations.
Transitioning to core funding would ensure the long-term survival of smaller grassroots organizations.
Authorities that use bureaucratic barriers to silence Roma activists would face increased scrutiny.

Missing Children Europe urges protection for shrinking civic space

European Federation for Missing and Sexually Exploited Children (Missing Children Europe), 5 Sept 2025

MCE requests a tracking system for threats and protected funding for children's rights. They want reduced paperwork and guaranteed support for the missing children hotlines.
Stable funding would prevent staffing shortages and help maintain critical 24-hour emergency services.
Member States using political pressure against NGOs could face legal action and infringement procedures.

Terre des Hommes Urges Global EU Civil Society Strategy

Terre des Hommes International Federation, 4 Sept 2025

The strategy must address the global dimension of shrinking civic space. It should explicitly include advocacy as a legitimate use of funding.
This would secure long-term funding and protection for their global operations.
Anti-rights movements lose influence as the EU strengthens independent democratic watchdogs.

Victim Support Europe Urges EU to Protect Victim Advocacy

Victim Support Europe, 4 Sept 2025

Victim Support Europe demands explicit recognition for victim organisations and protections for public advocacy. They seek sustainable, multi-annual core funding to ensure independence and institutional resilience.
Stable funding and advocacy safeguards would reduce financial uncertainty and protect against political pressure.
Victims of crime lose access to specialized care if state-run services replace NGOs.

ENIL urges EU to support small grassroots disability groups

EUROPEAN NETWORK ON INDEPENDENT LIVING BRUSSELS, 5 Sept 2025

The strategy must prioritize participation from small groups over large established organizations. Authorities should facilitate accessibility and cover participation costs for underrepresented voices.
Small groups would gain influence and funding without sacrificing their activist independence.
Large confederations could lose their exclusive control over policy dialogue and resources.

ECPAT International Demands Enforceable EU Protections for Child Rights NGOs

Stichting ECPAT International, 5 Sept 2025

The group requests a binding framework to protect child rights organisations and streamline cross-border operations. They demand multi-annual core funding and harmonised legal recognition for NGOs across all Member States. The Commission should also penalise countries that restrict civic space or harass activists.
Secure funding and legal safeguards would ensure long-term stability for child protection advocacy.
Member States that restrict civic freedoms or target activists would face formal EU-level consequences.

Health alliance demands stable funding in new EU strategy

European Alcohol Policy Alliance, 5 Sept 2025

The alliance calls for multi-annual operating grants and a binding agreement on civil dialogue. They demand enforced consultation standards and protection from industry-led harassment and legal threats.
Stable funding would secure their independence and long-term ability to influence policy.
Industry lobbyists would lose their dominant influence over high-level EU policy meetings.

Consultation response

End Female Genital Mutilation - European Network, 5 Sept 2025

The role of civil society organisations (CSOs) is critical for the good functioning of our societies; indeed, one cannot ignore the essential role played by civil society actors in providing services and protecting the rule of law and fundamental rights. This is particularly true for…

Consultation response

European Peacebuilding Liaison Office, 4 Sept 2025

The EUs initiative to develop a Civil Society Strategy offers the opportunity to establish a coherent framework for engagement, safeguard existing mechanisms of dialogue that are under pressure, and protect civil society facing increasing restrictions. Civil society plays a fundamental role in…

Consultation response

Women Against Violence Europe Network, 4 Sept 2025

The WAVE Network submission to the EU Civil Society Strategy consultation highlights the urgent need for a robust, long-term EU commitment to safeguarding civil society, with a focus on feminist and womens organisations as pillars of democracy and human rights. The document emphasizes escalating…

Consultation response

Bahá'í International Community, 5 Sept 2025

The Baháí International Community (BIC) Brussels Office welcomes the opportunity to contribute to the development of the European Unions Civil Society Strategy, and to offer some reflections on the nature of the engagement between institutions and civil society in contributing meaningfully to the…

Consultation response

Civil Liberties Union for Europe, 5 Sept 2025

As Liberties (Civil Liberties Union for Europe) we completed the questionnaire that formed part of this consultation and contributed to submission by Civil Society Europe. The attached presentation details a proposed structure for a Protection Mechanism for Human Rights Defenders and Civil Society…

Consultation response

11.11.11, Koepel van Internationale Solidariteit, 5 Sept 2025

The importance of a strong and independent civil society cannot be overstated. Civil society actors play an essential role worldwide as watchdogs for human rights, democracy, environmental justice, and the rule of law. They give a voice to marginalised groups, both locally and in the Global South,…

Consultation response

#DiasporaVote!, 5 Sept 2025

#DiasporaVote! welcomes the Commissions proposal to develop a European Civil Society Strategy. Civil society organizations are instrumental in engaging with underrepresented communities, advocating to advance their rights, providing services, raising awareness, collecting data, creating bridges…

Cooperatives Europe Urges Inclusion of Social Economy in Strategy

Cooperatives Europe, 4 Sept 2025

They call for a broad definition of civil society including cooperatives. The Strategy should address funding cuts and ensure structured dialogues.
Recognition ensures that cooperatives are formally involved in policy implementation.

Cancer Patients Europe urges EU to restore health NGO funding

Cancer Patients Europe, 4 Sept 2025

The group urges the Commission to restore operating grants to ensure financial stability for health organizations. They argue the strategy must include predictable funding because active participation in policy is not cost-neutral.
Reliable funding would protect their independence and long-term capacity to influence health policy.
Patients lose their voice in shaping regulations that directly affect their healthcare outcomes.

Consultation response

EUROPEUM Institute for European Policy, 5 Sept 2025

Civil society organisations in Central Europe are indispensable for safeguarding democracy, defending rights, and connecting citizens with decision-makers beyond elections. They act as watchdogs in environments where populist narratives, disinformation, and low trust in institutions increasingly…

Consultation response

Democracy International e.V., 3 Sept 2025

Democracy International welcomes the consultation on a European Civil Society Strategy and highlights the urgent need for a bold and consistent approach in the face of shrinking civic space. Civil society organisations across Europe face increasing legal restrictions, administrative burdens, smear…

European Food Banks Federation demands permanent civil society platform

European Food Banks Federation, 5 Sept 2025

FEBA recommends establishing a permanent Civil Society Platform with thematic sub-groups to foster targeted, cross-sectoral collaboration. They also call for earmarked European Social Fund Plus resources and reduced co-financing requirements for smaller organisations.
This would grant the federation long-term financial stability and formalize its role as a strategic partner.

Consultation response

Stichting Health Action International, 5 Sept 2025

Health Action International (HAI), as an independent, public interest non-governmental civil society organisation (CSO), with over 40 year experience in pharmaceutical and public health issues at national, EU and global levels, welcomes the opportunity to share our insights on the upcoming EU Civil…

Consultation response

SOLIDAR Foundation for Humanitarian, Development and European Cooperation, 5 Sept 2025

Civil Society plays a vital role in democratic checks and balances advancing fundamental rights, contributing to social inclusion, and ensuring that policies reflect the voices and diversity of our societies and marginalised communities. Yet across the EU and beyond, conditions of civic space for…

Consultation response

Open Government Partnership Secretariat, 4 Sept 2025

Open Government Partnership (OGP), is an international organisation whose membership consists of 74 countries, 152 subnational authorities, and thousands of civil society organisations. OGP is founded on the idea that the principles of open government - transparency, accountability, and…

Consultation response

Democracy Reporting International, 5 Sept 2025

Civil society actors are vital to upholding democracy, human rights, and social cohesion throughout the European Union. They give voice to diverse communitiesespecially those that are marginalised or underrepresentedby ensuring their participation in democratic life and by holding institutions to…

ZERO urges EU to protect civic space and funding

ZERO - ASSOCIAÇÃO SISTEMA TERRESTRE SUSTENTÁVEL, 5 Sept 2025

The group calls for a binding agreement on civil dialogue. They also want an independent protection mechanism and predictable funding.
Stable funding and guaranteed access would protect their climate advocacy work.
Corporate groups would lose their disproportionate influence over official EU consultations.

Consultation response

EL*C - EuroCentralAsian Lesbian* Community, 5 Sept 2025

The policy paper attached provides data and recommendation from EL*C on the next EU Civil Society Strategy that constitues an unique opportunity to respond to current CSOs challenges in world that is more polarised and ever more leaning toward authoritariasm. It is also a chance to increase…

Consultation response

European Festivals Association, 4 Sept 2025

The European Festivals Association welcomes this initiative to strengthen civic space. We believe that arts and culture must be recognised as a key dimension of European democracy and cohesion. Festivals, as part of the cultural ecosystem, create spaces where imagination and solidarity can…

Consultation response

International Commission of Jurists, 5 Sept 2025

The ICJ welcomes the opportunity to provide feedback on the EU Civil Society Strategy. Rule of law protection across the EU It is vital that there are effective EU mechanisms to respond to violations of the rule of law in EU Member States. The independence, impartiality and accountability of the…

PFPI Urges EU Limits on Vested Interest Lobbying Power

Partnership for Policy Integrity, 3 Sept 2025

The organization calls for formalizing civil society goals as policy objectives and establishing an independent watchdog. They request clear limits on industry lobbying and a mechanism to challenge non-scientific policy decisions.
These reforms would level the playing field for small NGOs against well-funded corporations.
Industrial lobby groups would lose their dominant influence over environmental and social regulations.

Consultation response

European Center for Not-for-Profit Law Stichting, 16 Jul 2025

ECNL is submitting contribution to the EU Call for Evidence on the EU Civil Society Strategy, entitled "Meaningful Civil Society Strategy: Anchoring Civil Space at the Heart of Europe's Policy Architecture." The document addresses the critical juncture at which the EU currently finds itself. With…

Consultation response

Deutscher Bundesjugendring, 4 Sept 2025

Civil society organisations (CSOs) are essential pillars of democracy, the implementation of human rights and monitoring of violations, and social cohesion across the EU. They represent diverse communities, especially marginalised and underrepresented groups, amplifying their voices in democratic…

Consultation response

European Citizen Action Service, 4 Sept 2025

Civil society organisations (CSOs) are essential pillars of European democracy, rights, and social cohesion. They amplify the voices of diverse communities, especially those marginalised or underrepresented, and hold public authorities accountable. CSOs defend fundamental rights, promote…

Consultation response

The Global Disinformation Index, 4 Sept 2025

The Global Disinformation Index welcomes the European Commission's initiative to develop a comprehensive EU Civil Society Strategy, particularly its recognition of the deteriorating environment for civil society organisations. As part of a group of organisations specialising in combating…

Consultation response

Inclusion Europe aisbl., 4 Sept 2025

It is important that people with intellectual disabilities are represented and visible: In all aspects of society. So that they can advocate for their rights, views and expectations. Ensuring representation of 20 million people with intellectual disabilities and their families is a key mission of…

Consultation response

Union Fédérale des Consommateurs - Que Choisir, 22 Aug 2025

L'UFC-Que Choisir soutient pleinement l'intention de la Commission européenne d'élaborer une stratégie pour la société civile. Une telle stratégie est aujourd'hui indispensable, tant les préoccupations sociétales sont encore trop souvent reléguées au second plan dans les agendas de compétitivité et…

Consultation response

SOSTE Suomen sosiaali ja terveys ry, 5 Sept 2025

Please see the document attached.

Internet industry association calls for including hotlines in NGO strategy

eco - Verband der Internetwirtschaft, 4 Sept 2025

The organization suggests that initiatives like hotlines should be included in the strategy alongside NGOs. They advocate for a comprehensive information strategy to protect actors from public misunderstandings and repression. Finally, they request reliable funding with transparent timelines to ensure organizational stability.
Formal inclusion would provide hotlines with enhanced institutional protection and secure long-term financial support.
Groups spreading misinformation lose their influence if the EU implements more effective public education.

Consultation response

CCI Europe, 3 Sept 2025

Childhood Cancer International Europe (CCI-E) is the biggest pan-European childhood cancer parents and survivors organisation. We welcome the opportunity to respond to the European Commissions Call for Evidence and support the EU Civil Society Strategy. For decades, civil society organisations…

German Welfare Group Urges Reliable Funding for Civil Society

Bundesarbeitsgemeinschaft der Freien Wohlfahrtspflege e.V., 5 Sept 2025

The organization calls for the EU and Member States to provide adequate, long-term funding for civil society. They propose a formalized agreement to guarantee consistent civil dialogue and recommend expanding partnership standards to all policy areas.
This would provide financial security and reduce self-censorship caused by legal uncertainties regarding political engagement.
Far-right and populist groups lose influence as civil society's role in protecting democracy is strengthened.

Consultation response

Child Rights International Network, 21 Aug 2025

Civil society actors are essential pillars of democracy, human rights, and social cohesion across the European Union. They represent diverse communities, particularly marginalised and underrepresented groups, including children and youth, amplifying their voices in democratic processes and holding…

Consultation response

YouthProAktiv, 11 Aug 2025

YouthProAktiv welcomes the European Commissions commitment to developing an EU Civil Society Strategy that strengthens engagement, protection, and support for civil society organisations (CSOs). As an international coalition of youth organisations across Europe, we stress that youth-led and…

Consultation response

NGO Shipbreaking Platform, 5 Sept 2025

Civil society actors are indispensable partners in ensuring accountability, amplifying diverse voices, and upholding EU values both within the Union and globally. The NGO Shipbreaking Platform, with members active across the Global North and South, plays an important role in defending fundamental…

Consultation response

Suomen Omakotiliitto ry, 5 Sept 2025

Suomen Omakotiliitto on valtakunnallinen pientalo- ja vapaa-ajan asukkaiden kansalaisjärjestö, jossa on lähes 70 000 jäsentä (kotitaloutta). Omakotiliitto kiittää mahdollisuudesta antaa palautetta EU:n kansalaisyhteiskuntastrategiaan. Lausuntomme asiaan löytyy oheisesta liitteestä. Kunnioittavasti…

Consultation response

The International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer Intersex (LGBTQI) Youth Student Organisation, 27 Aug 2025

Civil society organisations (CSOs) are a cornerstone of democracy, the rule of law, human rights, transparency and social cohesion. They act as watchdogs, service providers, advocates, and community-builders. For marginalised communities such as LGBTQI youth, grassroots CSOs serve as essential…

Consultation response

Federation of Young European Greens, 14 Aug 2025

CSOs are the backbone of democracy, human rights, social cohesion and progress across the EU. Their proposals, activities, actions, and campaigns are the result of meaningful dialogue between members of our society from diverse communities, particularly marginalised and underrepresented groups,…

Consultation response

Stichting Solidaridad Nederland, 30 Jul 2025

Genuine sustainability and inclusivity in global value chains requires equal participation and representation for the millions of people at the beginning of these value chains, including smallholder farmers, miners and workers. Their voices must be heard and their interests must inform decision and…

Consultation response

Samaritan International, 4 Sept 2025

Samaritan International welcomes the European Commissions initiative to set up an EU Civil Society Strategy and the opportunity to give feedback to this call for evidence. Being an EU-level network of civil society organisations, SAM.I. considers the meaningful involvement of civil society at all…

Consultation response

Centre for European Volunteering (CEV), 4 Sept 2025

Civil society, including CSOs and volunteers, is a vital pillar of European democracy. It promotes human rights, the rule of law, and active citizenship, ensuring diverse community representation and participation. By connecting citizens with governments, civil society directly benefits people,…

Social enterprise network ENSIE demands binding EU civil society rules

European Network of Social Integration Enterprises, 3 Sept 2025

ENSIE requests a binding instrument ensuring civil society is systematically consulted during policymaking. They demand recognition for social enterprises and structured dialogue at all levels.
This would grant social enterprises greater influence over policy and secure sustainable funding.
Traditional social partners like trade unions may see their exclusive consultative role diluted.

Consultation response

Civic Alliance-Latvia, 5 Sept 2025

Latvijas pilsoniskās sabiedrības organizācijas, atbalstot kopīgo Eiropas Savienības mērķi stiprināt demokrātiju, tiesiskumu un pilsonisko līdzdalību, augstu vērtē Eiropas Komisijas iniciatīvu izstrādāt Eiropas Savienības Pilsoniskās sabiedrības stratēģiju. Ņemot vērā esošo ģeopolitisko situāciju,…

Consultation response

European Sex Workers' Rights Alliance, 5 Sept 2025

Sex workers across Europe encounter profound barriers to political participation and representation, stemming from deeply entrenched stigma, legal discrimination, and escalating political hostility. These challenges are exacerbated by various factors, including the influence of far-right…

Consultation response

Croix Rouge Française, 4 Sept 2025

La Croix-Rouge française (CRF) accueille favorablement linitiative de création dune stratégie dédiée à la société civile et souhaite y contribuer activement, sappuyant sur son expérience de terrain ainsi que sur son engagement dans les dynamiques de dialogue et de financement aux niveaux national…

Consultation response

Fairtrade Labelling Organizations International e.V., 3 Sept 2025

Fairtrade International and our member organisations welcome the European Commissions initiative to develop a comprehensive EU Strategy for Civil Society. As the global representative organisation of Fairtrade certified producer organisations, involving more than 2 mln farmers and agricultural…

Consultation response

International Disability and Development Consortium, 5 Sept 2025

The International Disability and Development Consortium (IDDC) is a network of diverse civil society organisations (CSOs) working together to promote disability inclusive development and humanitarian action with a special focus on the full and effective enjoyment of human rights by all persons with…

Consultation response

Lung Cancer Europe, 5 Sept 2025

Please see attached document.

Consultation response

Organizace pro pomoc uprchlíkům, 5 Sept 2025

We welcome the EUs initiative to strengthen civil society and protect civic space, which is essential in the evolving political context of the EU. In light of the upcoming implementation of the EU Pact on Migration and Asylum, we urge the Commission to address the role of civil society…

Consultation response

Biom Association, 4 Sept 2025

Civil society organisations (CSOs) play a crucial role in safeguarding democratic society. They represent the public interest and ensure political participation for stakeholders who are often underrepresented, including citizens and various minority groups. CSOs promote human rights as well as…

Consultation response

Quaker Council for European Affairs, 7 Aug 2025

Like many civil society organisations we welcome this initiative to develop a EU Civil Society strategy and agree with the importance of civil society for the EU. As the initiative is aiming to promote dialogue with CSOs this should include examining how the Commission itself and other EU bodies…

Consultation response

Humanists International, 5 Sept 2025

Humanists International submits this contribution to the forthcoming EU Civil Society Strategy to highlight systemic challenges undermining civic space and equal participation in Europe. Across the EU, civil society organizations (CSOs) face mounting financial insecurity, political hostility, and…

Consultation response

Autism-Europe, 5 Sept 2025

Autism-Europe (AE), an international association representing autistic people and their families, calls on the European Commission (EC) to adopt a Civil Society Strategy that acknowledges the essential role of civil society in strengthening democracy, protecting fundamental rights and promoting…

Consultation response

Fundacja im. Stefana Batorego, 5 Sept 2025

Civil society organizations (CSOs) are essential to democracy, social cohesion, and resilience in Europe. They face shrinking civic space, legal harassment, funding restrictions, and digital threats. A strong European Civil Society Strategy should secure their role through four main pillars:…

Consultation response

Παγκόσμιο Ταμείο για τη Φύση - WWF Ελλάς, 5 Sept 2025

World Wide Fund for Nature - Greece welcomes the ECs Initiative under the title EU civil society strategy and hereby submits its contribution aiming at providing valuable input on the challenges CSOs face in Greece and the EU, and sharing an ambitious initiative endorsed by a wide range of CSOs to…

Consultation response

Lipu Odv, 5 Sept 2025

Le organizzazioni della società civile (SC) sono pilastri fondamentali del sistema europeo come garanti della democrazia, dei diritti umani e della coesione sociale. Esse rappresentano non se stesse ma linteresse e il bene comune, dando voce anche a chi non lha o non riesce ad averla, siano essi…

Consultation response

Scholars at Risk Network, 4 Sept 2025

SAR Europe welcomes the proposal for an EU Civil Society Strategy as a crucial step towards enhancing democratic participation, protecting fundamental rights, and empowering civil society actors to continue their indispensable work. For the Union to genuinely create an enabling environment for…

Consultation response

European Network for Smoking and Tobacco Prevention, 5 Sept 2025

ENSP as part of the EU4Health Alliance fully endorse and support the position included in the enclosed document.

Consultation response

France générosités, 5 Sept 2025

Les organisations de la société civile (OSC) constituent un pilier essentiel et structurant du fonctionnement démocratique et social en France comme dans lensemble de lUnion européenne. En France, avec près de 1,4 million dassociations et 7000 fondations, leur action couvre lensemble des champs de…

Consultation response

Ogólnopolska Federacja Organizacji Pozarządowych, 5 Sept 2025

As civic space faces an alarming rollback globally and across Europe, urgent action is imperative. There is a need to push back against these pressures by designing a Civil Society Strategy that will meet the moment and address the gravity of the situation in a comprehensive manner by equipping…

Consultation response

Balkan Civil Society Development Network, 5 Sept 2025

The Balkan Civil Society Development Network (BCSDN), together with 107 endorsing CSOs across the region, strongly welcomes the European Commissions initiative to adopt the first-ever EU Civil Society Strategy. This represents a historic opportunity to establish an ambitious and coherent framework…

Consultation response

Instituto de Salud Global de Barcelona, 5 Sept 2025

ISGlobal welcomes the European Commissions initiative to reinforce the role of civil society in policymaking. Drawing on our policy brief From Preparedness to Competitiveness (2025, https://www.isglobal.org/documents/d/guest/65_from-preparedness-to-competitiveness) and previous experience and…

Consumer group U.Di.Con. demands deeper inclusion in EU policymaking

U.Di.Con. APS Unione per la Difesa dei Consumatori, 4 Sept 2025

The association requests substantial involvement in decision-making rather than a purely consultative role. They also advocate for stable funding to overcome structural fragility.
Secure funding and formal roles would ensure long-term stability and organizational growth.

Consultation response

Bulgarian Fund for Women, 4 Sept 2025

Bulgarian Fund for Women (BFW) welcomes the Commissions initiative to develop an EU Civil Society Strategy. This comes at a decisive moment for democracy and human rights across Europe. To be effective, the Strategy must reflect the realities of civil society organizations (CSOs), strengthen their…

Consultation response

World Wildlife Fund Italia, 2 Sept 2025

Gli attori della società civile rappresentano pilastri essenziali della democrazia, della tutela dei diritti umani e della coesione sociale nell'Unione Europea. Rappresentano comunità diverse, amplificandone le voci nei processi democratici e contribuendo a rendere le istituzioni pubbliche…

Consultation response

The European Institute for Animal Law Policy, 2 Sept 2025

CSOs play a vital role in upholding democratic values, advocating for human rights, and representing diverse societal interests. However, over recent years the already challenging environment they operate in has deteriorated significantly, with the rise of anti-democratic and far-right forces.…

Consultation response

Fond za Humanitarno Pravo, 21 Aug 2025

We need an evidence-based approach where civil society actively shapes donor agendas, rather than the opposite. The challenges we face regarding the enabling environment and sustainable development can only be effectively addressed by identifying all the specific needs that burden the sector and…

Consultation response

Stichting Hivos (Humanistisch Instituut voor Ontwikkelings Samenwerking), 21 Aug 2025

This Call for Evidence for an EU Civil Society Strategy comes at a moment of unprecedented pressure on civic space worldwide, when governments increasingly deploy legal, digital, and financial tools to silence dissent and restrict fundamental freedoms. Having worked for decades alongside…

Consultation response

European Network for the Work with Perpetrators of Domestic Violence e.V., 22 Jul 2025

The European Network for the Work with Perpetrators of Domestic Violence (WWP EN) submits this contribution grounded in practical experience from its member organisations across Europe. As a network working at local, national, and EU levels to address gender-based violence and promote fundamental…

Consultation response

Ökotárs Alapítvány - Hungarian Environmental Partnership Foundation, 15 Jul 2025

A strong, diverse and independent civil society is an indispensable component of any healthy democracy, acknowledged by all major international institutions. Civil society organisations (CSOs) and informal groups/movements of citizens play a vital role in the promotion and application of universal…

Consultation response

European Large Families Confederation, 18 Jun 2025

The European Large Families Confederation (ELFAC) represents national associations of large families across Europe, advocating for public policies that promote the social and economic interests of families with three or more children. The Confederation strongly supports the European Commissions…

Consultation response

Environmental Justice Network Ireland, 5 Sept 2025

I make this submission on behalf of Environmental Justice Network Ireland (EJNI). As an all-island organisation dedicated to enhancing environmental justice working across Ireland, Northern Ireland, the UK, as well as at EU and International level, we enthusiastically welcome the steps being taken…

Consultation response

, 5 Sept 2025

Civil society is an indispensable pillar of democracy: it transforms citizen voices into tangible policy input, enhances societal resilience, and safeguards fundamental rights and the rule of law. Yet, CSOs face a rapidly shrinking civic space, compounded by funding difficulties, limited…

Consultation response

Centre for Environmental Initiatives "Ecoaction", 5 Sept 2025

Declared European Union values have been a driving force for Ukrainian citizens in their fight against Russian aggression. This is a clear demonstration that EU values are extremely important for people who have experienced a democratic system and still have the opportunity to express their…

Consultation response

Equipop, 5 Sept 2025

Les organisations de la société civile (OSC) sont essentielles à la démocratie et au respect des droits humains, mais leur espace daction est gravement menacé : restrictions juridiques, politiques et financières, campagnes de désinformation et dénigrement, surveillance accrue. Les OSC féministes,…

Consultation response

Polish Donors Forum, 5 Sept 2025

Polish Donors Forum fully supports the Philea (Philanthropy Europe Association) position paper: towards an EU Civil Society Strategy. Reflecting on the current space for Civil Society in Europe, we are of the opinion that EU Strategy on Civil Society comes at a crucial moment. On the one hand,…

Consultation response

ΕΛΛΗΝΙΚΗ ΑΝΤΙΚΑΡΚΙΝΙΚΗ ΕΤΑΙΡΕΙΑ, 5 Sept 2025

The Hellenic Cancer Society (HCS) is a non-governmental organization founded in 1958 with local branches in all Greek regions. Their members are all volunteers. The Society s main goals are cancer prevention, early diagnosis, and support for patients and their families. They focus on raising…

Consultation response

Imagine for Margo - Children without cancer, 5 Sept 2025

Le combat contre les cancers pédiatriques est avant tout européen Imagine for Margo Children without Cancer est une association française créée en 2011, suite au décès de Margaux, une adolescente touchée par un cancer agressif du cerveau. Depuis près de quinze ans, nous finançons la recherche…

Consultation response

Redress Trust, 5 Sept 2025

Submission by the Global Initiative Against Impunity (please find full submission attached). We welcome that the EU Civil Society Strategy (Strategy) aims to protect and support civil society organisations (CSOs) working on rule of law and human rights. To be effective, the Strategy should define…

Consultation response

CEDAG - Comité Européen des Associations d'intérêt Général - European Council for non-profit organisations, 5 Sept 2025

CEDAG welcomes the European Commissions consultation on the future EU Civil Society Strategy and submits the following recommendations: 1. Empower Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in macro-regions through dedicated EU platforms and the Directive on the European Cross-Border Associations. 2.…

Consultation response

Eurazijos zalos mazinimo asociacija/ Eurasian harm reduction association, 5 Sept 2025

Over the last years an increasing number of governments in Central Eastern Europe & Central Asia (CEECA) are adopting new laws and practices that constrain civic space (restricting rights and liberties of civil society), thereby exerting additional pressures and burden on already criminalized…

Consultation response

, 5 Sept 2025

The Civil Society Forum (www.csf-ev.org), a Germany-based civil society network, with currently 150 member organisations from all over Europe, including in the majority of member states of the European Union as well as beyond, welcomes the opportunity to contribute to the European Union Civil…

Consultation response

ACCELERATE Paediatric Oncology Multi-stakeholder Platform, 5 Sept 2025

ACCELERATE welcomes the European Commissions plan to establish an EU Civil Society Strategy. Based in Brussels with a global outlook and a strong European footprint, ACCELERATE is an international multi-stakeholder platform dedicated to accelerating the development of innovative therapies for…

Consultation response

EMMA Közhasznú Egyesület, 5 Sept 2025

Civil society organizations (CSOs), especially those advancing gender equality, womens rights, and sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR), are vital to democracy, human rights, and the rule of law across the EU. However, they face mounting threats: political hostility, restrictive laws,…

Consultation response

Bulgarian Center for Not-for-Profit Law, 5 Sept 2025

The Bulgarian Center for Not-for-Profit Law (BCNL), founded in 2001, works to strengthen civil society, civic participation, and good governance in Bulgaria through legal and policy development. BCNL welcomes the initiative for an EU Civil Society Strategy, long demanded by CSOs across Europe, as a…

Consultation response

the International Network Against Cyber Hate, 5 Sept 2025

We welcome the proposal for a comprehensive strategy, which is both timely and necessary. CSOs across the EU are increasingly confronted with legal, political and administrative restrictions and financial insecurity. These pressures jeopardise their independence, effectiveness and legitimacy,…

Consultation response

Fundacja na rzecz Kobiet i Planowania Rodziny, 5 Sept 2025

This submission is made by ASTRA Network, a regional network of SRHR movements from Central and Eastern Europe and Central Asia, coordinated by FEDERA Foundation for Women and Family Planning (Transparency Register ID: 153270594205-95), which represents ASTRA in the EU Transparency Register. Civil…

Consultation response

UNIÓN PROFESIONAL, 5 Sept 2025

Unión Profesional (UP), asociación que aúna a 36 profesiones en España, solicita que la Estrategia reconozca expresamente a las corporaciones colegiales y a las organizaciones profesionales como entidades que conforman una categoría específica de la sociedad civil organizada, primordiales para el…

Consultation response

, 4 Sept 2025

Civil society organisations form a cornerstone of democracy, human rights protection, and social cohesion within the European Union. However, in recent years, civil society across the EU has come under unprecedented pressure: a shrinking civic space; restrictive legal, political, or administrative…

Consultation response

Acreditar - Associação de Pais e Amigos de Crianças com Cancro, 4 Sept 2025

A ACREDITAR é membro fundador da Childhood Cancer International (CCI) e membro ativo da Childhood Cancer International Europe (CCI-E) que é a maior organização pan-europeia de pais e sobreviventes de cancro pediátrico. Durante décadas, as organizações da sociedade civil (OSCs) preencheram as…

INDECOSA-CGT demands stronger legal protections and sustainable civil society funding

Information et défense des consommateurs salariés – Confédération générale du travail, 4 Sept 2025

The organization requests concrete guarantees against abusive lawsuits and illegal surveillance to protect civic space. They also call for simplified administrative procedures and sustainable funding to ensure organizational independence.
Simplified funding and legal safeguards would ensure the group's long-term operational independence.
Market-driven lobbies lose influence as policy shifts toward prioritizing human social needs.

Consultation response

Europe-Central Africa Network, 4 Sept 2025

As a network of 31 civil society organisations, working for over 20 years towards sustainable peace and stability in the Great Lakes region, the Europe-Central Africa Network (EurAc) is highly concerned about the accelerating restrictions on civic space for CSOs and human rights defenders within…

Consultation response

Fertő tó Barátai Egyesület, 4 Sept 2025

Szervezetünk örül a lehetőségnek, hogy részt vehet ebben a konzultációban. Véleményünk szerint egy erős EU-nak erős civil szervezeti szektorra van szüksége, amihez egy erős civil társadalmi stratégia kell. Ennek a stratégiának védenie és egyúttal erősíteni kell a civil társadalmat, hogy kompenzálja…

Consultation response

, 3 Sept 2025

Civil society organisations (CSOs) are indispensable to advancing equality, protecting rights, and upholding democracy in the EU. They connect Equality Bodies with communities, provide evidence of discrimination, and ensure rights are realised in practice. This collaboration is enshrined in Article…

Consultation response

De Regenboog Groep, 3 Sept 2025

Statement on the EU Civil Society Strategy Correlation European Harm Reduction Network (C-EHRN) is a European civil society-based network working in the field of drug policy, health, and social inclusion. We envision an inclusive and just Europe where people who use drugs, alongside other…

Consultation response

Mediterranean Women's Fund - Fonds pour les Femmes en Méditerranée, 3 Sept 2025

Womens Funds Europe welcomes the European Commission's recognition of the deteriorating environment for civil society organizations and the need for coordinated EU action. However, the strategy must address the specific challenges facing grassroots, women-led organizations that form the backbone of…

Consultation response

Portuguese Association of Liberal Professionals, 3 Sept 2025

A Associação Nacional ( Portugal) dos Profissionais Liberais, entendidos como aqueles "detentores de qualificações de natureza intelectual, incluindo aquelas de índole artística e cultural, promovendo a sua responsabilidade, autonomia e independência no superior interesse dos consumidores e da…

Consultation response

Fédération Addiction, 2 Sept 2025

La Fédération Addiction est le premier réseau daddictologie en France. Elle rassemble acteurs du soin, de la prévention et de laccompagnement, défend leurs intérêts et lutte contre la stigmatisation des personnes concernées. Elle met son expertise au service de politiques adaptées aux réalités…

Consultation response

Christian Council International, 2 Sept 2025

Christian Council International (CCI) appreciates the opportunity to provide feedback on the initiative for an EU Civil Society Strategy. While we acknowledge the importance of this Strategy, several key aspects need careful attention, specifically its neutrality, scope of application, and…

Consultation response

Verband Freier Rundfunk Österreich, 1 Sept 2025

Strengthening Democratic Participation and Media Pluralism: The Essential Role of Community Media in the EU Civil Society Strategy Introduction We welcome the European Commissions public consultation on the new EU Civil Society Strategy aimed at enhancing democratic participation, rule of law, and…

Consultation response

Pravni center za varstvo človekovih pravic in okolja, 29 Aug 2025

We welcome a systematic approach to strategic support for the development and functioning of civil society organizations at the EU level, and we support the development of multi-level protection measures for environmental and human rights organizations at the EU level. However, we believe that the…

Consultation response

Umanotera, The Slovenian Foundation for Sustainable Development, 29 Aug 2025

Umanotera, Slovenska fundacija za trajnostni razvoj podaja komentar ko koordinator mreže 38 NVO za trajnostni razvoj Plan B za Slovenijo. Sprejem strategije zelo pozdravljamo, saj organizacije civilne družbe predstavljajo temeljne gradnike demokracije. Posebej organizacije na področju okolja so…

Consultation response

International Drug Policy Consortium, 27 Aug 2025

The International Drug Policy Consortium (IDPC) is a network of 190+ civil society and community organisations. CSOs play a critical role in shaping drug policies grounded in human rights and holding governments accountable for human rights violations. Yet, civic space is shrinking across the EU…

Consultation response

Animal Advocacy Food Transition, 23 Aug 2025

The European Union finds itself at a defining moment. Faced with growing authoritarian tendencies, disinformation, and the shrinking of civic space, it must stand firm as a stronghold of democracy, transparency, and science-based policymaking. Civil society organisations (CSOs), and particularly…

Consultation response

World Roma Federation, 22 Aug 2025

The World Roma Federation welcomes the opportunity to contribute to the EU Civil Society Strategy. As an organization with ECOSOC consultative status, we affirm the vital role of civil society in protecting democratic values, human rights, and equality. Roma civil society organizations are key…

Consultation response

BAGSO - Bundesarbeitsgemeinschaft der Seniorenorganisationen, 20 Aug 2025

The German Association of Senior Citizens' Organisations (BAGSO) welcomes the Strategy for Civil Society. We call for strong commitment to embedding intergenerational solidarity as a guiding principle and promoting intergenerational exchange. Further, we call for EU initiatives that systematically…

Consultation response

Spiele-Autoren-Zunft, 19 Aug 2025

Migrant led organizations such as ours are an important part of civil society. As the voice of migrants, we are currently affected in two ways by the shrinking spaces for NGOs: on the one hand, we have to defend ourselves against hostility and defamation directed at NGOs in general, and on the…

Consultation response

Gong, 29 Jul 2025

Gong is a democracy watchdog focused on enhancing democratic processes and institutions as well as developing democratic political culture. We welcome the European Commissions initiative to develop the Civil Society Strategy aimed at promoting dialogue with policymakers and protecting civic space,…

Consultation response

Groupe SOS, 25 Jul 2025

Le Groupe SOS est une organisation à but non lucratif, engagée en faveur du vivre-ensemble. Il développe et unit des associations et entreprises sociales, reliées par leur engagement social et environnemental. Son action sarticule autour de deux grandes priorités : la gestion détablissements non…

Asociatia Principia demands real funding and protection for NGOs

Asociatia Principia, 10 Jul 2025

The association demands adequate funding and protection instead of symbolic dialogue initiatives. They call for reforms to prevent political actors from creating fraudulent front organizations. The strategy must address national authorities' refusal to follow international court rulings.
Direct financial support would help small human rights organizations sustain their operations.
Politically-controlled organizations would lose access to funding intended for independent civil society.