OHCHR calls for input: How to create and maintain civil society space?

31-03-2015
The High Commissioner for Human Rights is putting together a report of practical recommendations on the space for civil society to work freely and independently.

The exercise of public freedoms (expression, association, peaceful assembly) and the right to participate in public life are at the heart of civic activity. They are the "Super Rules" that allow you to do what you do; influence positive change in your communities. Whatever the issue you are working on. And so good laws and rules to guarantee public freedoms, as well as ways to monitor and protect them are a necessary condition. But that's not all. You also need:

  • a political and public environment that values civil society's contributions
  • free flow of information
  • long-term support and resources
  • space for dialogue and collaboration

Share:

  • your examples and illustrations of these and other ways to maintain space to work
  • if there are limitations, how do you continue to carry out your activities
  • useful links, tools, resources, guides (whatever the language)

Send by 30 June 2015 by email: [email protected]. Be sure to include in the subject heading "Civil Society Space Report - Input". 

The resolution of the UN Human Rights Council is accessible here.

ECNL is co-organizing a session on this topic at the coming ICNL Global Forum in Stockholm.