MACS captures the state of civil society space in 7 EU member states. Core to its approach is the Early Warning and Alert System, which triggers timely action by EU institutions, international organisations, the media, and human rights actors. The fourth roundup of alerts puts France in the spotlight:
France:
Funding for social support association withdrawn due to criticism of government actions: As a result, the AREA association, which has been providing comprehensive social support to people living in slums in Montpellier for ten years, announced that it had to end its activities at the end of December 2025. Read more here.
Proposed laws target consultative bodies: The bills, submitted by French MP Anne-Laure Blin aim to reduce the powers of state agencies engaging in civil dialogue, and to reduce the number of state advisory bodies. Read more here.
Right wing agricultural union carries out spate of attacks on environmental associations: Members of Coordination Rurale vandalised the premises of several organisations, including leaving the head of a wild boar outside one building. Read more here.
Gagging amendments proposed in budget debates: The proposals, none of which has been adopted, involve measures to deprive associations of tax benefits. Read more here.
Just published: seven new country reports on civic space trends across the EU in 2025. Read the MACS reports for nuanced findings about the countries and key EU law insights, identifying where the EU has the legal authority to act.