BCSDN Virtual Event: Countering Foreign Agents Laws and Narratives with Dynamic Accountability [November 6th & 8th]

In a time when “accountability” and “transparency” are increasingly twisted into tools of restriction, civil society organizations (CSOs) now face a damaging label: “foreign agents” allegedly destabilizing their own countries. Framed as transparency measures, these “foreign agents” narratives and laws are curtailing civic space and weakening CSO influence. The question remains: what can CSOs do in response? Can mobilization, people-driven advocacy, self-regulation, and even AI and new digital tools effectively counter these restrictive trends?

As part of Global Accountability Week 2024, we are pleased to invite you to BCSDN’s virtual event, Weaponizing Accountability: How Can CSOs Effectively Counter Foreign Agents Laws and Narratives with Dynamic Accountability?, on November 6^th and 8^th, at 14h CET. This two-part event will gather recognized experts and civil society leaders across the region and EU to discuss practical approaches for defending civic space through dynamic accountability—drawing from real experiences and lessons learned.

WHY THIS EVENT?

Foreign agents’ laws targeting CSOs that receive foreign funding are spreading across countries like Hungary, Georgia, Serbia, and Turkey, now reaching the Balkans, especially in Serbia, Montenegro, and Republika Srpska (BiH). Marketed as tools for national security, these laws often serve to suppress civic freedoms. While the EU has expressed concerns, its own Defence of Democracy package has fuelled debate over accountability’s future in Europe.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Unpacking Foreign Agents’ Narratives (DAY 1: November 6^th)
Experts will share insights from Hungary, Slovakia, Bulgaria, and the Western Balkans, examining how these laws gain traction, the stigma they create, and effective strategies to protect civil society

Effective Responses Through Accountability (DAY 2: November 8^th)
This session will explore effective civil society resilience strategies, from grassroots mobilization to combating smear campaigns. Experts will discuss internal accountability practices, standard-setting, and innovative uses of AI and technology to counter harmful narratives against CSOs.

The invitation and full agenda are available HERE.

Join the discussion to learn how CSOs can reclaim their narrative and defend civic space.

REGISTRATION LINKS:

• Day 1 (November 6^th), 14h CET: Zoom Registration Link
• Day 2 (November 8^th), 14h CET: Zoom Registration Link

Please register ahead and secure your spot!