Advocacy in Restricted Spaces: A Toolkit for Civil Society Organizations

Civil Society and Civic Action
Written By Matt Baker

Source: LIFELINE | Year: 2020

The Lifeline Fund for Embattled CSOs was established in 20111 to provide support to groups targeted because of their human rights work. Since that time, there are more restrictions on civil society in many countries. Freedom House’s Freedom in the World report has documented a ten year decline in democracy and fundamental freedoms globally. Governments, powerful individuals, and other groups are increasingly targeting civil society organizations (CSOs) and individuals who advocate for fundamental freedoms. Restrictions on civic space include:

  • legislation restricting foreign funding

  • registration regulations

  • misuse of terrorism laws

  • travel bans and

  • online harassment and smear campaigns.

What this guide IS: a menu of options to encourage new ideas about conducting advocacy in difficult contexts.

What this guide IS NOT: a one-size-fits-all approach to advocacy that can be applied anywhere.

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Matt Baker
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