BCSDN is organising a targeted advocacy visit to Brussels from 3–6 March to engage with EU institutions and policymakers at a pivotal moment for the Union’s democracy and funding frameworks. As the EU develops the Civil Society Strategy, the European Democracy Shield, and the 2028–2034 Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF), these initiatives will shape how civic space, civil society participation, and support for civil society evolve across Europe, including in enlargement countries. In the Western Balkans and Türkiye, where civil society operates in an increasingly challenging environment marked by shrinking space, polarisation, and funding uncertainty, these developments carry particular significance for democratic resilience and the credibility of the accession process.
BCSDN closely follows the EU’s approach to civil society in enlargement countries and advocates for its structured recognition as a core partner in the accession process. Through our Monitoring Matrix on the Enabling Environment for Civil Society Development, rapid alert mechanism, sustained dialogue with EU institutions, and members expertise, we provide independent evidence on civic space trends, civil society participation, and fundamental rights across the Western Balkans and Türkiye. The visit will draw on this evidence and on our recent policy brief: Civil Society in the Western Balkans & Türkiye in the EU’s Evolving Policy Framework, which sets out recommendations for civil society inclusion in forthcoming EU instruments.
Engaging EU Institutions on Future Policy Directions
As part of this visit, BCSDN will engage with representatives of the European Commission, Members of the European Parliament, and other key stakeholders shaping forthcoming EU policy frameworks that will influence how the Union protects democratic values, supports civil society, and allocates funding in the coming years, including in enlargement countries. Particular attention will focus on how these frameworks can address democratic risks, strengthen independent civic actors, and ensure sustainable backing — including through participation arrangements, safeguards, early-warning and resilience tools, and the positioning of enlargement priorities within the future MFF. Engagement with EU institutions will also examine how these approaches are put into practice to ensure meaningful civil society participation in enlargement countries.
BCSDN remains committed to advancing an enabling environment for civil society across the Western Balkans and Türkiye and to supporting a credible, transparent, and participatory enlargement process.
Follow our website and social media for updates from our Brussels advocacy visit.