Enabling principles
An enabling environment is one where civil society can thrive, express itself freely, and actively engage in shaping its context. Freedom of expression is indispensable in an enabling environment; citizens must feel secure in expressing opinions and sharing information online and offline. Similarly, the freedoms of association and peaceful assembly allow individuals to pursue collective goals unhindered. Protecting human rights defenders and protesters is essential for creating an environment conducive to civil society’s activities. When these rights are respected and protected we have an open civic space and citizens have space to organise, participate, and communicate effectively.
While “civic space” and “enabling environment” are often used interchangeably, the “enabling environment” is a broader concept more action-oriented and outcome-driven. It describes an environment that not only respects and protects fundamental freedoms but also facilitates the effective work of civil society.
Beyond safeguarding the right to associate, the autonomy and operational freedom of civil society must be ensured. This assurance needs a legal and regulatory framework that facilitates their establishment, protects against unwarranted interference, and provides a solid legal basis for their activities. Additionally, access to sustainable resources is critical for enabling civil society to carry out its mission effectively.
Furthermore, a constructive engagement between the state and civil society plays a pivotal role in fostering an enabling environment, as both types of actors (public bodies and civil society actors) converge in the formulation, implementation and evaluation of public policies. This engagement should thus be characterised by transparency, accountability and meaningful, inclusive collaboration in policy-making and governance processes. Acknowledging civil society’s contributions cultivates public support and inclusivity toward their initiatives and accomplishments, thereby strengthening their environment and eventually triggering a virtuous circle of mutual trust and recognition.
Finally, civil society actors should have access to digital technologies and be able to operate freely and securely in the digital space, without the threat of censorship, online manipulation, disinformation, or disruption of digital rights.
As a complex and multifaceted concept that can only be defined in relative terms, we have broken down the enabling environment for civil society into six key enabling principles for methodological reasons:
- Respect and protection of fundamental freedoms
- Supportive legal and regulatory framework
- Accessible and sustainable resources
- Open and responsive State
- Supportive public culture and discourses on civil society
- Access to a secure digital environment