Civic Champions

Empowering civil society organisations and activists championing human rights and democratic values in the EU.

The project aims to safeguard civic space in selected EU countries in Southern Europe by empowering civil society groups to report threats and violations of their rights.

It addresses the tendency of “shrinking civic space” by setting up monitoring systems, strengthening capacities and enhancing public trust through evidence-based and communication strategies.

Civic space, as defined by the UN, allows for meaningful participation in social life, requiring freedom of expression, assembly and association both online and offline. Despite their critical role in democratic governance, human rights protection and social advocacy, civil society organisations face increasing security risks, hampering their effectiveness. The project aims to strengthen the role of civil society organisations in the field of civil society.
Enhance the protection of civic space in selected EU countries in the Southern Europe by empowering civil society actors to report threats and violations of their fundamental rights.