Empowering civil society organisations and activists championing human rights and democratic values in the EU
An initiative seeking to enhance the protection of civic space
GA number: 101143114
Funded by: CERV Duration: 30/04/2024-29/04/2026
Challenge
Although civil society organisations play a crucial role in promoting democratic governance, protecting human rights, and advocating for social fairness, recent studies suggest that they are facing significant security challenges. This decreased sense of security has a frightening effect on them and disrupts their ability to function effectively.
The phenomenon of ‘shrinking civic space’ is increasingly observed in many EU Member States. At the same time, the number of civil actors who experience various forms of
physical and verbal attacks, harassment and intimidation -both in the digital and physical space- remains largely unknown due to the low reporting or the inconsistent data collection in many EU countries.
Innovation
CivicChampions aims to enhance the protection of civic space in selected EU countries in Southern Europe by empowering civil society actors to report threats and violations of their fundamental rights. In the context of the ‘shrinking civic space’ phenomenon, this project seeks to develop a monitoring and early warning mechanism, build capacity, and promote public trust in civil society actors through a combination of evidence-based and communication actions.
Action
Promotional Material
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or CERV. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.
Project Partners
(Coordinator)
