News and updates from BCSDN and the region
The Coalition Against SLAPPs in Europe (CASE) 2024 report on SLAPPs reveals that the use of SLAPP lawsuits to silence those speaking out in the interest of the public good shows no sign of slowing down. The 2024 report found 166 new SLAPPs initiated in 2023. Although there has been progress, with the EU adopting
Read more →BCSDN member Partners Albania for Change and Development announced the launch of the Resilient Balkans Fund, a transformative sub-granting initiative supporting individual activists and social movements in the Western Balkans. As part of the Powered by the People (PxP) initiative (2023–2028), led by Partners Global and funded by USAID, the fund aims to address critical
Read more →The EU TACSO 3 team has launched its 2024 annual impact survey to gather feedback from civil society and other stakeholders about the project’s effectiveness. The survey aims to assess the reach and impact of EU TACSO 3 activities. The feedback collected will help shape future planning for 2025 and beyond. Participation ensures that diverse
Read more →Serbian students are leading nationwide protests against President Aleksandar Vučić’s government, sparked by a deadly canopy collapse at the Novi Sad railway station in November, which killed 15 people and exposed corruption tied to infrastructure projects involving Chinese companies. Rejecting accusations of Western funding to overthrow the government, students have suspended classes at over 40
Read more →In a letter to the European Commission, the Media Freedom Rapid Response (MFRR) raises concerns that the proposed “agent of influence” bill in Turkey poses a serious threat to fundamental freedoms, including freedom of expression and press freedom. Under consideration by the Turkish Parliament, the bill could see individuals facing 3-7 years of imprisonment for
Read more →BiH Journalists’ Association is calling for urgent protective measures for an investigative journalist after reports of an assassination plot by an organised crime group. The journalist, known for exposing links between international drug cartels and crime networks, has faced significant threats and pressure, including from high-level politicians. The leader of the group was arrested in
Read more →The Global Fund for Community Foundations (GFCF) report explores the intersections between community philanthropy, women’s philanthropy, and feminist philanthropy. Focused on empowering marginalized communities and addressing systemic inequities, the study highlights shared values of inclusivity, solidarity, and rights-based approaches. These philanthropic models mobilize resources, foster collaboration, and challenge traditional power structures to improve women’s and
Read more →The coalition “Open about Tenders,” including BCSDN member Civic Initiatives, has raised alarms about the misuse of public funds in Serbia’s state-administered grants to CSOs. While recent tenders have seen a rise in funding allocations, they disproportionately benefit a select few organizations—some lacking transparency, expertise, or public visibility. Concerns include favoritism, mismanagement, and the absence
Read more →The CIVICUS Monitor has upgraded Slovenia’s civic space rating to “Open” in its latest report, People Power Under Attack 2024. This milestone highlights Slovenia’s efforts to strengthen democratic processes, foster civil society engagement, and advance press freedom. Key reforms include securing the independence of public broadcaster RTV Slovenia, enhancing civil society consultations, and passing a
Read more →Protests in Georgia intensified after the ruling Georgian Dream (GD) party suspended EU accession talks, drawing condemnation and widespread demonstrations. Thousands gathered in Tbilisi and other cities, demanding the restoration of EU negotiations and new elections. The government’s response included aggressive tactics, such as water cannons, tear gas, and arrests, with over 300 detainees by
Read more →“Foreign agent” laws are increasingly used by governments worldwide to restrict civil society and dissent, leveraging security justifications. Funders play a crucial role in supporting civil society to counter these laws, but efforts need to be proactive and long-term. Philanthropic foundations can act swiftly, while official donors can provide large-scale, strategic funding. Collaboration among funders
Read more →The ECNL package on fundraising provides vital insights into the power and significance of resource mobilization for CSOs. It highlights fundraising as a right, emphasizing its role in enabling grassroots activists, social movements, and CSOs to shape open societies, safeguard freedoms, and ensure their sustainability. This resource covers income diversification strategies, including grants, private donations,
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