Defending civic space: EU policymakers and civil society step up joint engagement
As attacks on civil society and restrictions on civic space continue to increase, key EU policymakers are joining philanthropy and wider civil society actors in efforts to protect and strengthen the space in which civic actors operate. A more strategic dialogue with EU institutions, together with policy commitments stemming from the European Civil Society Strategy, marks an important step forward.
On 23 June, the inaugural Civil Dialogue Forum took place in the European Parliament. EU Commissioner for Democracy, Justice, the Rule of Law and Consumer Protection McGrath underlined the role that civil society plays in pluralistic societies and stressed that stronger protection for civil society, democracy, rule of law and fundamental rights is needed now more than ever. The two European Parliament Vice Presidents, Katharina Barley and Nicolae Ștefănuță, who are responsible for relations with civil society also made clear their support for the sector.
Civil society and civil dialogue are cornerstones of democratic life. True democratic participation is not limited to elections alone. Citizens also engage through associations, foundations and informal groups, helping to address societal challenges and strengthen democratic checks and balances. This role was clearly recognised at the Civil Dialogue Forum in the European Parliament.
A stronger role for civil society in policymaking requires a more streamlined approach to civil dialogue across the EU institutions, with the potential to inspire similar practices at national level and in candidate countries. The ten principles set out in the European Civil Society Strategy offer a useful starting point: involving civil society early and regularly, taking a partnership approach rather than relying on one-way consultation, and proactively reaching out to a broad range of civic actors.
Access to funding remains a key concern for civil society. The sector is under growing pressure as USAID and other bilateral donors cut or reorient budgets, while some voices in the European Parliament question the legitimacy of NGOs receiving EU funding. Expectations are therefore high for the next AgoraEU programme to provide strong support for civil society under the next EU budget, including funding for its watchdog and advocacy roles.
Public funding remains the main source of financial support for civil society, but philanthropy and business also have an important role to play. There is scope for different types of donors to engage more closely with one another. Alongside the planned Civil Society Platform, the European Civil Society Strategy foresees a Donor Dialogue. Representatives from the European Commission, EEA and Norway Grants, Philea, Civitates and individual foundations already explored possible next steps at a meeting organised by the European Commission’s DG JUST at the end of June.
Launched in November 2025, the European Civil Society Strategy is now moving from commitment to implementation. By the end of the year, the Civil Society Platform and a donor dialogue on civic space are expected to be launched, alongside plans for an annual summit organised with the European Economic and Social Committee.
The message is clear: civil society and fundamental rights are not optional extras. Across EU institutions, there is growing recognition that defending civic space is a shared responsibility. As several speakers underlined this spring, we are in this together.
Image credit: © European Union 2026 – Source: EP
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