Elements for Successful CSO Law Reform Initiatives

In recent years, much attention has been given to the regulatory backlash against civil society – that is, the use of law to constrain civic space and impede the important work in which CSOs are engaged. Successful efforts to improve the legal environment for civil society are often overlooked. Whether measured in terms of the enactment of more enabling legislation or in terms of the improvement of regressive draft laws prior to enactment, “success” in legal reform can and does occur. The key elements or learning points of successful reform initiatives have not, however, been closely examined. This research paper seeks to fill this gap by focusing on the elements of successful reform initiatives.