Civil society in the crosshairs in Central, Eastern Europe DW 03/12/2025Illiberal governments in Central and Eastern Europe, like Hungary, are exploiting the U.S. political climate to intensify crackdowns on civil society.
Higher Education Unions Mobilize to "Kill the Cuts" - Non Profit News | Nonprofit QuarterlyA coalition of labor and civil society is mobilizing against federal cuts in higher education with demonstrations across 30 US cities.
The International Fact-Checking Network condemns false claims and raid on CRTA in Serbia - PoynterSerbian authorities' raid on CRTA raises serious concerns about press freedom and civil society in the country.
Fact-checkers face intimidation in Eastern Europe as USAID cuts embolden authoritarian tactics - PoynterPolice raided the offices of Serbian civil society organizations, including Istinomer, allegedly in connection with USAID-related corruption, highlighting threats to independent media.
The International Fact-Checking Network's statement on threats against CRTA in Serbia - PoynterRecent harassment against CRTA in Serbia threatens independent accountability journalism and the safety of civil society organizations.
The International Fact-Checking Network condemns false claims and raid on CRTA in Serbia - PoynterSerbian authorities' raid on CRTA raises serious concerns about press freedom and civil society in the country.
Fact-checkers face intimidation in Eastern Europe as USAID cuts embolden authoritarian tactics - PoynterPolice raided the offices of Serbian civil society organizations, including Istinomer, allegedly in connection with USAID-related corruption, highlighting threats to independent media.
The International Fact-Checking Network's statement on threats against CRTA in Serbia - PoynterRecent harassment against CRTA in Serbia threatens independent accountability journalism and the safety of civil society organizations.
Joy, hope and murder in free Syria podcastSyrians are experiencing a fragile yet hopeful transition to a new future after decades of war and repression.
Rebuilding Democracy in Syria Will Require "Struggle From Below"The fall of the Assad regime is reshaping Syria and the Middle East, with both opportunities and vulnerabilities for the Syrian people.
Opinion | Syria Is Trying to Rebuild Without Humanitarian Aid or Sanction ReliefSyria faces extreme vulnerability post-Assad's ouster with a collapsing economy and limited infrastructure.
We've proved we can do anything': the Syrian women who want a say in running the countryWomen in Syria seek to redefine roles in governance despite historical suppression from authorities.
Joy, hope and murder in free Syria podcastSyrians are experiencing a fragile yet hopeful transition to a new future after decades of war and repression.
Rebuilding Democracy in Syria Will Require "Struggle From Below"The fall of the Assad regime is reshaping Syria and the Middle East, with both opportunities and vulnerabilities for the Syrian people.
Opinion | Syria Is Trying to Rebuild Without Humanitarian Aid or Sanction ReliefSyria faces extreme vulnerability post-Assad's ouster with a collapsing economy and limited infrastructure.
We've proved we can do anything': the Syrian women who want a say in running the countryWomen in Syria seek to redefine roles in governance despite historical suppression from authorities.
Americans are beginning to fear dissent. That's exactly what Trump wants | Robert ReichThe Trump administration's policies are stifling open dissent and communication in American civil society.
South Korea's Warning for WashingtonPresident Yoon's martial law declaration has ignited widespread protests, reflecting deep civil resistance against perceived authoritarianism.
Can Georgia still find a way out of its crisis? DW 12/18/2024Georgia is experiencing a deep political, social, economic, and moral crisis, marked by widespread protests against the ruling government.
Why has Georgia's foreign agents' bill caused so much protest and anger?The controversial foreign agents' bill in Georgia requires NGOs and media receiving over 20% of funding from foreign sources to register, triggering protests and condemnation.
The foreign agents' law that has set off mass protests in GeorgiaCritics claim Georgia's new foreign-funding law, inspired by Putin, may affect civil society and shift the country's alignment towards Russia.
Pakistan-administered Kashmir repeals protest restrictions after strikeThe government withdrew an unpopular ordinance limiting protests in response to widespread public anger and protests in Pakistan-administered Kashmir.
Americans are beginning to fear dissent. That's exactly what Trump wants | Robert ReichThe Trump administration's policies are stifling open dissent and communication in American civil society.
South Korea's Warning for WashingtonPresident Yoon's martial law declaration has ignited widespread protests, reflecting deep civil resistance against perceived authoritarianism.
Can Georgia still find a way out of its crisis? DW 12/18/2024Georgia is experiencing a deep political, social, economic, and moral crisis, marked by widespread protests against the ruling government.
Why has Georgia's foreign agents' bill caused so much protest and anger?The controversial foreign agents' bill in Georgia requires NGOs and media receiving over 20% of funding from foreign sources to register, triggering protests and condemnation.
The foreign agents' law that has set off mass protests in GeorgiaCritics claim Georgia's new foreign-funding law, inspired by Putin, may affect civil society and shift the country's alignment towards Russia.
Pakistan-administered Kashmir repeals protest restrictions after strikeThe government withdrew an unpopular ordinance limiting protests in response to widespread public anger and protests in Pakistan-administered Kashmir.
Fears for human rights as Peru passes simply brutal' anti-NGO lawPeru's anti-NGO law severely restricts civil society's ability to challenge human rights abuses, threatening access to justice for the vulnerable.
Prosecuted for ProtestingColombia's response to protests has included violent repression and increased surveillance techniques, raising serious human rights concerns.
Peru passes law critics claim will cripple NGOs DW 03/14/2025Peru's new law restricts NGOs from suing the state for human rights abuses, raising concerns about justice and transparency.
Leading human rights lawyer Xu Zhiyong on hunger strike in Chinese prison, family saysXu Zhiyong is on hunger strike protesting inhumane prison treatment, raising serious health concerns as China's most prominent human rights lawyer.
EFF's Reflections from RightsCon 2025The need for solidarity in digital rights advocacy is critical in response to authoritarianism and Big Tech abuses.
Azerbaijan's human-rights record is under fire as it prepares to host UN climate talksAzerbaijan faces allegations of human rights abuses as it prepares to host a climate summit, prompting U.S. lawmakers to demand accountability.
Fears for human rights as Peru passes simply brutal' anti-NGO lawPeru's anti-NGO law severely restricts civil society's ability to challenge human rights abuses, threatening access to justice for the vulnerable.
Prosecuted for ProtestingColombia's response to protests has included violent repression and increased surveillance techniques, raising serious human rights concerns.
Peru passes law critics claim will cripple NGOs DW 03/14/2025Peru's new law restricts NGOs from suing the state for human rights abuses, raising concerns about justice and transparency.
Leading human rights lawyer Xu Zhiyong on hunger strike in Chinese prison, family saysXu Zhiyong is on hunger strike protesting inhumane prison treatment, raising serious health concerns as China's most prominent human rights lawyer.
EFF's Reflections from RightsCon 2025The need for solidarity in digital rights advocacy is critical in response to authoritarianism and Big Tech abuses.
Azerbaijan's human-rights record is under fire as it prepares to host UN climate talksAzerbaijan faces allegations of human rights abuses as it prepares to host a climate summit, prompting U.S. lawmakers to demand accountability.
Hong Kong's oldest pro-democracy party says it will begin process of disbandingHong Kong's oldest pro-democracy party plans to shut down amid increasing pressure and a challenging political landscape.
A milestone that changed the history of VenezuelaThe October 22, 2023 primary election was pivotal in restoring faith and unity among Venezuelans to challenge Maduro's regime.
The founding fathers baked reason, truth and free speech into the US. That's all gone now | Will HuttonThe founding fathers sought to embed Enlightenment principles into American governance, fostering democracy and liberty.Trump's presidency signals a significant departure from Enlightenment values, inciting fear and silencing in civil discourse.
In a crisis of democracy what role can graphic designers play? Everyday Practice imparts its insightsSouth Korean designers mobilized creatively in response to democracy crises, illustrating declarations through impactful posters.
Slovaks recall revolution and protest threat to democracy DW 11/19/2024Slovaks are urged to protect democracy amid concerns over governmental authoritarianism and attempts to distance the country from the EU and NATO.
Breaking with Guatemala's authoritarian pastDemocratic struggles in Guatemala continue to echo from 1944 to 2024, marked by civil mobilization and resistance against entrenched interests.
Hong Kong's oldest pro-democracy party says it will begin process of disbandingHong Kong's oldest pro-democracy party plans to shut down amid increasing pressure and a challenging political landscape.
A milestone that changed the history of VenezuelaThe October 22, 2023 primary election was pivotal in restoring faith and unity among Venezuelans to challenge Maduro's regime.
The founding fathers baked reason, truth and free speech into the US. That's all gone now | Will HuttonThe founding fathers sought to embed Enlightenment principles into American governance, fostering democracy and liberty.Trump's presidency signals a significant departure from Enlightenment values, inciting fear and silencing in civil discourse.
In a crisis of democracy what role can graphic designers play? Everyday Practice imparts its insightsSouth Korean designers mobilized creatively in response to democracy crises, illustrating declarations through impactful posters.
Slovaks recall revolution and protest threat to democracy DW 11/19/2024Slovaks are urged to protect democracy amid concerns over governmental authoritarianism and attempts to distance the country from the EU and NATO.
Breaking with Guatemala's authoritarian pastDemocratic struggles in Guatemala continue to echo from 1944 to 2024, marked by civil mobilization and resistance against entrenched interests.
Now is the time of monsters': young Berliners despair at far-right surgeThe recent election in Germany has resulted in a significant rise of the far-right Alternative für Deutschland, leading to concerns about future governance.
Lebanese citizens mobilize to fill the vacuum left by an absent stateLebanese citizens increasingly rely on civil society and community efforts due to government inadequacies amidst ongoing crises, including displacement from Israeli offensive.
Frontline of CareLebanese citizens are stepping in to fill the void left by a dysfunctional state, showing remarkable community support during crises.
Lebanese citizens mobilize to fill the vacuum left by an absent stateLebanese citizens increasingly rely on civil society and community efforts due to government inadequacies amidst ongoing crises, including displacement from Israeli offensive.
Frontline of CareLebanese citizens are stepping in to fill the void left by a dysfunctional state, showing remarkable community support during crises.
Rightwing MEPs threaten huge funding freeze for environmental NGOsThe defunding push by right-wing MEPs threatens numerous environmental NGOs in Europe, jeopardizing their operational funding.
Trump planning to target progressive non-profits, US watchdog warnsTrump's agenda for a second term indicates plans to undermine democracy by targeting progressive groups and using governmental power to suppress dissent.
Nonprofit "Terrorism" Bill Defeated-For Now - Non Profit News | Nonprofit QuarterlyThe bill HR 9495 would give the treasury secretary authority to revoke nonprofits' tax-exempt status for alleged terrorism support, raising free speech concerns.
Trump planning to target progressive non-profits, US watchdog warnsTrump's agenda for a second term indicates plans to undermine democracy by targeting progressive groups and using governmental power to suppress dissent.
Nonprofit "Terrorism" Bill Defeated-For Now - Non Profit News | Nonprofit QuarterlyThe bill HR 9495 would give the treasury secretary authority to revoke nonprofits' tax-exempt status for alleged terrorism support, raising free speech concerns.
Attention Deficit and Defiance Division of Labor: There's Stuff Happening Where You're Not Looking - emptywheelTrump's actions are seen as sabotaging democracy, with emphasis on national Democratic leadership leading to passivity.
Opinion | Now Is Not the Time to Tune OutPresident Trump's actions aim to create chaos, distract the public, and consolidate executive power.
Attention Deficit and Defiance Division of Labor: There's Stuff Happening Where You're Not Looking - emptywheelTrump's actions are seen as sabotaging democracy, with emphasis on national Democratic leadership leading to passivity.
Opinion | Now Is Not the Time to Tune OutPresident Trump's actions aim to create chaos, distract the public, and consolidate executive power.
After the collapse of the Assad regime, Syrians are working to preserve their country's heritageSyrian heritage professionals are working to protect and restore ancient sites after the fall of Assad's regime, despite lack of governmental priority.
Nonprofits Are at the Core of American Democracy. Now They're Under ThreatThe new bill grants the President excessive power over nonprofits, threatening civil liberties and the foundation of democratic freedoms.
Even as polarization surges, Americans believe they live in a compassionate countryCompassion is essential for civil society and peacemaking, particularly during challenging political climates.
Israel since October 7: From solidarity to deep divisions DW 10/04/2024Israeli society is deeply divided over whether bringing hostages home justifies ending the war with Hamas.
Ms Kallas, prioritise civil society for Israeli-Palestinian peaceThe urgent need for leadership to support civil society peacebuilders in Israel and Palestine for a sustainable and just peace.
Israel since October 7: From solidarity to deep divisions DW 10/04/2024Israeli society is deeply divided over whether bringing hostages home justifies ending the war with Hamas.
Ms Kallas, prioritise civil society for Israeli-Palestinian peaceThe urgent need for leadership to support civil society peacebuilders in Israel and Palestine for a sustainable and just peace.
Federal Funding Freeze Could Decimate Nonprofits - Non Profit News | Nonprofit QuarterlyThe White House has halted all federal loans and grants pending review, threatening the US nonprofit sector and civil society.
Economic Justice: Why We Must Build a New Common Sense - Non Profit News | Nonprofit QuarterlyElections in the U.S. are binary and often fail to represent diverse opinions, highlighting a need for electoral reform.
Continuing crackdown on churches and NGOs moves Nicaragua further from democracy to authoritarianismThe Nicaraguan government has suppressed over 1,500 nonprofits as part of a broader crackdown on civil society under President Ortega's authoritarian regime.
Russia launching more sophisticated phishing attacks, new report findsRussia's state security agency is enhancing phishing tactics against civil society members by employing sophisticated impersonation techniques.
Gulag History Museum in Moscow temporarily closed for safety reasons'The Gulag History Museum's closure reflects ongoing Kremlin efforts to suppress independent historical narratives and civil society in Russia.
Russia launching more sophisticated phishing attacks, new report findsRussia's state security agency is enhancing phishing tactics against civil society members by employing sophisticated impersonation techniques.
Gulag History Museum in Moscow temporarily closed for safety reasons'The Gulag History Museum's closure reflects ongoing Kremlin efforts to suppress independent historical narratives and civil society in Russia.
Civil society tells European Mayors stop funding Putin's 'murderous war against Ukraine' - London Business News | Londonlovesbusiness.comCities must implement measures to reduce the use of oil to weaken Russia's funding for the war against Ukraine.Cutting off Russian oil exports is essential for Ukraine's victory and for those suffering from the conflict.
The Case Against Despair in Trump's Second TermCivil society is essential for protecting constitutional rights and will continue to perform this role even if Trump returns to power.
What challenges will Algerian President Tebboune face in his second term?Abdelmadjid Tebboune's second term faces challenges due to low voter turnout and declining civil society engagement in Algeria.
A changed Georgia is no longer a haven for Russia's political exilesGeorgia, once a refuge for Russian dissidents, is becoming less welcoming as the government shifts toward Moscow and cracks down on civil society.
NGOs in Georgia refuse to register as 'foreign agents' under new lawMost NGOs in Georgia refused to register under the controversial 'foreign agents' law, citing threats to democracy and freedom of speech.
Georgia to introduce Kremlin-style anti-LGBTQ+ bill DW 06/08/2024Controversial LGBTQ+ bill in Georgia may lead to restrictions on LGBTQ+ rights, similar to Kremlin's actions, sparking concerns about EU accession.
Ukraine Drones Target Russia's Smolensk Region, Says GovernorThe controversial draft legislation in Georgia could have negative consequences for civil society and the country's EU ambitions.
A changed Georgia is no longer a haven for Russia's political exilesGeorgia, once a refuge for Russian dissidents, is becoming less welcoming as the government shifts toward Moscow and cracks down on civil society.
NGOs in Georgia refuse to register as 'foreign agents' under new lawMost NGOs in Georgia refused to register under the controversial 'foreign agents' law, citing threats to democracy and freedom of speech.
Georgia to introduce Kremlin-style anti-LGBTQ+ bill DW 06/08/2024Controversial LGBTQ+ bill in Georgia may lead to restrictions on LGBTQ+ rights, similar to Kremlin's actions, sparking concerns about EU accession.
Ukraine Drones Target Russia's Smolensk Region, Says GovernorThe controversial draft legislation in Georgia could have negative consequences for civil society and the country's EU ambitions.
Why Are Democrats Supporting a Bill That Would Give Trump More Power to Punish His Critics?Trump's second term may intensify crackdowns on civil society, especially through legislation like HR 9495 which threatens nonprofits' operations.
Lisa Nandy announces plan to restore charities to centre of national life'Charities must engage in political criticism for democracy to flourish, according to UK officials.
In Rural China, Sisterhoods' Demand Justice, and CashRural women in China are demanding equal rights and fighting against customs denying them land benefits based on marriage.
The danger of pro-EU' Euroscepticism in the Western BalkansSupport for EU accession in the Western Balkans is declining due to frustration and a shift in civil society sentiment towards anti-EU positions.
Burkina Faso kicks out three French diplomats over subversive activities'Burkina Faso has ordered three French diplomats to leave within 48 hours due to alleged subversive activities, marking a decline in relations with France.