Shrinking space for civil society is an issue for all civil society sectors in the countries concerned, and it is, or should be, an issue for all democratic states in general. It is a multifaceted problem which needs a specific solution that should be based on a constructive political dialogue with public authorities at national and local level.
The consultative meeting organised by the Council of Europe Youth Department allowed an in-depth reflection on the current situation and its consequences, including various perspectives from civil society, governments, international organisations, and other stakeholders.
The Conference of INGOs contributed to this discussion with great interest. Youth participation at local, national, and international level is necessary in the current political and legal environment. Their participation at the Council of Europe is essential in order to propose realistic and effective solutions to the member States and thus ensure a civil society generation that is dynamic and politically and democratically engaged.
The Conference of INGOs contribution was made possible thanks to the preparatory work led by Rares Craiut, Rapporteur of the Bureau and representative of the Conference of INGOs to the Advisory Council of Youth and Anne Kraus, Vice-President of the Conference and representative to the European Steering Committee for Youth.
links
