News and updates from BCSDN and the region
Liberties published a new handbook, “Relying on the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights for Human Rights Litigation” to support human rights defenders in their efforts to protect freedoms by providing practical advice on using the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights and EU law in litigation. The handbook complements Liberties Charter litigation training program, part of
Read more →In the face of nationalistic tendencies that threaten civic space in Serbia, Sofija Todorovic from Youth Initiative for Human Rights in an op-ed, underscores the importance of truth, peace, anti-fascism, solidarity, and democracy as fundamental steps to a future free from conflicts and wars. Through YIHR’s proactive response, these challenges are being addressed head-on, fostering
Read more →OECD released the “Governance at a Glance Report 2023” which highlights the impact of recent crises on global economic resilience. Despite governments’ prompt response to challenges, efforts to reinforce trust and democratic resilience must be intensified due to environmental, demographic, fiscal, and technological obstacles. Key report’s findings include the undermining of trust in public institutions,
Read more →The European Parliament acted in favor of protecting journalists, media organizations, activists, academics, artists, and researchers from unjustified and harmful legal actions. The Legal Affairs Committee voted in favor of new regulations to safeguard against strategic lawsuits intended to silence individuals involved in the public interest sphere. To enhance protection against SLAPPs, MEPs expanded the
Read more →Istanbul’s Prosecutors’ Office has initiated an investigation into social media posts related to the protests in France, which started in June after a 17-year-old was shot dead by police. The investigation focuses on accounts suggesting that similar events may occur with refugees in Turkey. Istanbul’s Prosecutors’ Office announced that it has sent an order to
Read more →The Balkans experiences significant increase in internet penetration and the integration of Biometrics and Digital Identity BDI technologies in various sectors. Between 2020-23, Albania, BiH, North Macedonia, Kosovo and Serbia reported increase in cyberattacks, specifically phishing and ransomware incidents. BIRN has mapped 40 cases and has collated data on cyberattacks targeting the Balkan region’s BDI
Read more →Civil society is calling for a comprehensive scope and definition of AI systems, without any exceptions for national defense/security. CoE Committee on AI has been entrusted with negotiating a Framework Convention on AI, law, human rights, and democracy. Encouraged by the Conference of INGOs, civil society observers are pushing for the inclusion of a broad
Read more →In a recent blog post for Accountable Now, we at BCSDN share our journey towards becoming a more diverse, inclusive, and accountable CSO network. Embracing diversity and inclusion is crucial for our success. We are dedicated to learning, growing, and ensuring that we represent the stakeholders we serve. At BCSDN, alignment on D&I principles is
Read more →Transparency and accountability are crucial for philanthropic organizations to earn trust and support from the community. Implementing plans for transparency and accountability is a key component of good governance. With the global challenges faced by the philanthropic sector, there is a growing need for practical guidance on achieving greater transparency and accountability. This guide builds
Read more →The Feminist Accountability Framework (FAF) is designed to help move the Generation Equality Forum (GEF) from promises to action. It is co-designed by 22 grassroots organizations in the Global South and facilitated by Global Fund for Women. The Framework offers a summary of the co-design process to create Feminist Accountability; up to date findings; gathering
Read more →Since 2013, the annual European Day of Foundations and Donors showcases the European philanthropy sector, promoting the importance of giving and civic action. The article discusses philanthropy’s complex nature, found both in large and well-established organizations, as well as organizations operating on a grass-root level, all contributing to a motivation to do good. Read more
Read more →In the contemporary digital world, NGOs and fundraisers use different innovative tools and technologies, helping them engage with donors, maximize their efforts, and amplify impact. One such tool that has the power to change the fundraising landscape is Artificial Intelligence (AI) which streamlines NGOs operations and personalizes donor experience. Adopting AI in fundraising strategies leads
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