Despite widespread concerns expressed by the European Civic Forum and European CSOs in consultations, meetings, and letters, the European Commission has decided to press ahead with a foreign funding directive as part of its Defence of Democracy package. BCSDN stands united against the adoption of the Foreign Agent Registration Law. Civil society is the backbone of democracy, safeguarding fundamental rights and the rule of law. While we share concerns about foreign interference, the Directive may have unintended consequences. The law creates a register for entities engaging in interest representation on behalf of third countries. It risks breaching EU primary law, impacting economic freedoms, and limiting fundamental rights such as assembly, expression, and privacy. This legislation could stigmatize and harass CSOs, hindering their advocacy work. It also imposes discriminatory capital restrictions, potentially undermining the EU’s role in protecting democracy worldwide. Read our reaction to the issue here.
Source: European Civic Forum/ BCSDN