The new thematic study: “Civil society support to refugees and other migrants in Europe: the need to end the backlash on civil society space” delivered by the Expert Council on NGO Law of the Conference of INGOs examines how European civil society, particularly NGOs and solidarity networks supporting refugees and migrants, face increasing legal and practical obstacles. These include criminalization, restrictive regulations, and stigmatization. Such measures hinder NGOs’ humanitarian work and violate human rights principles, including freedom of association. The study highlights European states’ obligations under international law, such as the European Convention on Human Rights, to protect civil society space. It calls for reforms to uphold solidarity and support for migrants, emphasizing the vital role of NGOs in addressing humanitarian needs and advocating for policy changes. Find the study here.
Source: Expert Council on NGO Law