News and updates from BCSDN and the region
BCSDN joined over 80 CSOs and 180 individuals worldwide to endorse a statement urging the United Nations to appoint a Special Rapporteur on Democracy. The joint appeal, ahead of the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, emphasizes the interdependence of democracy and human rights. It specifies that the proposed Rapporteur, created by
Read more →The European Commission has introduced a new Growth Plan for the Western Balkans, aimed at extending EU membership benefits to the EU accession countries. The plan would enable the region to step up reforms and investments to accelerate the speed of the enlargement process and the growth of countries’ economies. It includes a proposed 6
Read more →The European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) highlights the urgent need for a comprehensive strategy to address the challenges obstructing the achievement of UN SDGs and calls for a long-term EU political commitment beyond 2030. To accelerate progress, EESC advocates transitioning from a siloed to a holistic approach, involving various societal sectors and establishing a
Read more →In the face of challenges such as regulatory proliferation and threats to civil society space, Philea has actively advocated for the interests of foundations, striking a balance between security and capital flow. Progress has been made in recognizing the vital role of foundations and non-profit organizations, particularly in navigating OECD Common Reporting Standards. The European
Read more →The CSO Partnership for Development Effectiveness (CPDE) and the Reality of Aid published the Private Sector Watch: Global Synthesis Report 2023. The report compiles national and subnational case studies from CPDE members worldwide. It examines the impact of Private Sector Engagement (PSE) on diverse sectors, including women, youth, workers, farmers, fisherfolk, and Indigenous Peoples. The
Read more →BCSDN expresses concern over recent events jeopardizing freedom of expression and association in North Macedonia. In the most recent attack, a defamation lawsuit targeted the Investigative Reporting Lab (IRL), exemplifying a Strategic Lawsuit Against Public Participation (SLAPP) aiming to silence critical voices. The judge’s disconcerting statement, questioning IRL’s media status and limiting journalistic activities, sets
Read more →BiH journalist Snezana Mitrovic, from N1 television, was attacked by Mr. Milorad Dodik, the President of Republika Srpska, during a press conference. In response, the Media Freedom Rapid Response consortium condemned Dodik’s behavior, urging a public apology and an end to intimidation of media. The consortium highlighted a history of Dodik’s pressure on journalists and
Read more →The Center for Science and Innovation for Development (SCiDEV) provided input during the consultation of the Roadmap on Chapter 23 “Judiciary and fundamental rights” – a strategic document of the Government of Albania responding to the European Commission screening report for Albania – focusing on the section III.G on “Freedom of Expression, Media Freedom, and
Read more →A conference co-organized by the European Commission and the Spanish Presidency of the Council of the EU, held in November explored strategies to strengthen civil society and uphold fundamental rights, responding to civil society’s long-term demands. Discussions highlighted an institutional framework for civil dialogue, EU-wide monitoring, and streamlined funding access, yet concerns arose about a
Read more →The Liberties’ Online Civic Space Report, the first report specifically focusing on the state of the online civic space in the EU, focuses on inadequate protection of fundamental rights online. The report covers developments in 11 EU countries over the past five years, revealing issues such as online smear campaigns, doxxing, and efforts to regulate
Read more →The consultation paper from the Blended Finance Taskforce, with support from the World Bank and the Transparency and Accountability Initiative, advocates for Green Accountability in climate finance. The paper syntheses insights and recommendations from expert interviews, analyses, and consultations with stakeholders. It emphasizes transparency, inclusivity, and representative decision-making throughout the lifecycle of climate finance commitments.
Read more →The sign-on letter, directed to bilateral and multilateral funders and foundations, conveys the strong support of local and community-based organizations from the Majority World (Global South) for the ongoing shift of power and resources towards more locally led approaches. It provides five suggestions to enhance the inclusion of these organizations in international events, emphasizing equal
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