The BCSDN virtual event “Weaponizing Accountability: Countering Foreign Agents’ Laws and Narratives” convened experts from Hungary, Slovakia, Bulgaria, Turkey, and the Western Balkans on November 6-8 to address restrictive foreign agents’ laws stigmatizing CSOs. Day 1 highlighted strategies to counter government-imposed narratives labeling CSOs as foreign threats, while Day 2 focused on building civil society resilience through dynamic accountability, emphasizing grassroots mobilization, transparency, and proactive communication. Experts, activists, CSO practitioners, and journalists shared innovative solutions to maintain CSO credibility and public trust, leveraging technology and fostering community engagement. BCSDN pledged further fostering of collaboration in defense of civic space, emphasizing adaptability and value-based messaging to counteract divisive legislation. Read more here.
Source: BCSDN