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We are experts on civil society law and policy. We co-develop locally-led responses with the goal to protect civic freedoms. We create knowledge, build networks and strengthen legal protections. ECNL is analytical, forward-looking and innovative.
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ECNL Learning Center
Learn more about critical aspects that affect civic space.
CSO Meter
Assess and advocate for an improved civil society environment in the Eastern Partnership countries.
Updated Handbook on How to Use EU Law to Protect Civic Space
Research
In the Second Edition of our Handbook, you will find guidance on how EU law affects our fundamental rights, and why rule of law matters to civic space.
Focus areas
We are deeply commited to empowering civil society through creating enabling legal and policy frameworks. Explore our focus areas!
Protests and Assemblies
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Participation
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Funding and Philanthropy
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UN Standards
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European policies
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Action for Civic Space
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Monitoring Civic Spaces
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Climate Action
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News & Research
What's the latest in the field of civil society law and policy? Read our news and learn more about our analytical and research work!
Latest
View allCitizens’ Assemblies: participatory democracy in action
A case study on participation models that bring together diverse groups of people to develop carefully considered solutions to even the most complex social issues.
News
Joint civil society statement on transparency of risk assessments under the Digital Services Act
What do we expect to see in large online platforms’ first risk assessments under the DSA to ensure the protection of fundamental rights?
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UK to regulate artificial intelligence
What can the UK learn from the EU AI Act and the Council of Europe Framework Convention on AI?
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Leaders Network for Environmental Activists and Defenders (LEAD) for effective climate action
Introducing LEAD, a new space to advance the protection of environmental human rights defenders, and strengthen their participation in multilateral climate discussions.
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New assessment outlines steps to increase financial sustainability of Moldovan civil society
The analysis aims to support a more enabling environment for fundraising by identifying ways to increase the opportunities for Moldovan CSOs to access domestic funding sources.
Research
Participatory budgeting: A tool to build trust in institutions and consider the needs of communities
As the EU is working on the next Multiannual Financial Framework, there is momentum to enhance democratic processes and trust in EU institutions.
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Taking action against biometric surveillance: Civil society tactics and strategies
This ECNL report introduces six strategies for pushing back against biometric surveillance practices from a civil society perspective.
Research
Georgia: What does the Implementing Regulation of the Law on Transparency of Foreign Influence bring?
Briefers by ICNL and ECNL on how the law will be enforced and what the key provisions are for CSOs and media.
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Towards an AI Act that serves people and society
ECNL report, commissioned by the European AI & Society Fund, identifies strategic priorities for civil society and funders on the implementation and enforcement of the EU AI Act.
News
Impact stories
ECNL Portals
ECNL maintains several different websites, each with essential information but different civic space focus . Created with partners, these portals provide knowledge on the core civic freedoms of association, assembly and participation to support CSOs and civic groups open and defend their own spaces. Click here for for our learning center and a collection of websites to navigate the nonprofit laws around the world, assess civil society environment in the Eastern Partnership countries or track government responses to the pandemic that affect civic freedoms.
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Civic space portals
Explore our diverse websites!
E-tools
Through research and analysis we provide digital tools on various civic space issues. Explore our online resources for accessible information on assembly rights in the digital space, nonprofit banking, international standards that protect climate activists and more!
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Online resources on the ECNL website
Use these tools to analyse trends and advocate for better policies, laws and practices that affect civil society.
About us
ECNL is an independent and established European leader on law and policy that affect civil society. We create knowledge, empower partners and help set global and regional standards that create, protect and expand civic freedoms. We rely on our 20+ years of expertise to respond to trends with relevance, creativity and innovation. Get to know us!
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This is us over the years
Get to know the people working to address critical civic space needs!
Contact
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