Algeria
Egypt
Israel
Jordan
Lebanon
Libya
Morocco
Palestine *
Syria *
TunisiaWorld NGO Day: Statement by the High Representative/Vice-President Josep Borrell
Civil society plays a crucial role as the voice for the most vulnerable, contributing to robust democracies and accountable governance. However, they continue to work in an increasingly restrictive and hostile environment in many parts of the world.
NGO workers, human rights defenders, and journalists are increasingly threatened and attacked, often with impunity.
The work of civil society is often stigmatised, through “foreign agent” laws or other legislative and administrative measures which hamper legitimate NGO activities. The use of excessive force against peaceful protesters hinders democratic participation. The EU strongly condemns attacks on freedom of association and peaceful assembly.
The EU is mobilising all tools at its disposal to counter these trends, providing substantial financial support to civil society. The EU System for Enabling Environment (EU SEE), launched in 2023 with €50 million, monitors and promotes civic space in 86 partner countries.
Civil society including youth must have a strong role in shaping the UN’s Pact for The Future, to advance the Sustainable Development Goals and uphold human rights.
Countries covered:
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Algeria
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Egypt
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Israel
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Jordan
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Lebanon
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Libya
-
Morocco
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Palestine *
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Syria *
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Tunisia
