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News and updates from BCSDN and the region

Emphasizing the Role of Civil Society: Key Takeaways from the 2023 UN Financing for Development Forum

The recently concluded 2023 UN Financing for Development Forum shed light on the crucial role of CSOs in the development and implementation of Infrastructure Financing Frameworks (INFFs). It highlighted that CSOs bring valuable expertise, diverse perspectives, and on-the-ground knowledge that can enhance the effectiveness, transparency, and accountability of infrastructure financing. The article stresses the importance

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Advancing Ethics Reform and Transparency in the European Union

Efforts to strengthen ethics and transparency within the EU have gained momentum, as highlighted in recent publications. The focus is on addressing ethical challenges and enhancing accountability mechanisms across EU institutions. Proposed reforms aim to set clear ethical standards, improve conflict of interest rules, and expand financial disclosures to promote transparency. The objective is to

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Postponement of Foreign Interference Law: EU Commission’s Decision and Implications

The European Commission has announced the postponement of the proposed law targeting foreign interference in the European Union (EU). The article “NoEUfara: Commission Postpones Foreign Interference Law” by ECNL, sheds light on this decision and its potential implications. The postponement is a response to concerns raised by CSOs and other stakeholders regarding the potential impact

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European Civic Forum Response to the EC Consultation on the Defense of Democracy Package

The European Commission has published its consultation on the Defense of Democracy package, aiming to bring legislative and non-legislative measures to strengthen resilience to covert foreign interference and encourage civic engagement in the European democracies. As part of the package, the Commission plans to introduce a directive for “common transparency and accountability standards for interest

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EU Foreign Interference Law Could Threaten Civil Society

A coalition of CSOs has issued a joint statement expressing concern about the EU’s proposed foreign interference law, which they argue could have a chilling effect on CSOs. The law aims to address foreign influence in EU elections and political processes, but the CSOs warn that it could also be used to stifle legitimate activities

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Defending Democracy Through a Free Civil Society

A vibrant and independent civil society, including non-governmental organizations, media outlets, and grassroots movements, is essential for holding governments accountable, promoting transparency, and safeguarding human rights. Unfortunately, many governments worldwide are cracking down on civil society and restricting its ability to operate freely. This is particularly concerning in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, which

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