Although civil society matters fall outside the EU’s competence, in response to signs of a shrinking civic space observed in an increasing number of Member States, EU institutions have launched a number of important initiatives, partly as a result of civic advocacy, during the 2019-24 mandate aimed at supporting an enabling environment for civil society. To name but a few:

• the mandate of Vice President Vera Jourova regarding civil society and civil space,
• the annual Rule of Law reports covering the state of civil society in the Member States,
• the Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values (CERV) funding programme launched with a significantly increased budget and new types of grants,
• the draft directive on European Cross-Border Associations nearing completion,
• the 2023 Council conclusion on the role of civil society in democratic societies – the first document of its kind.

Besides, amplifying the voice of civil society, the European Parliament and the European Economic and Social Committee have called in several resolutions for the establishment of an EU system of civil dialogue and the adoption of a comprehensive civil strategy.

At the same time, there are opposing and potentially dangerous legislative initiatives underway, too – most notably the draft 'Transparency in the Representation of Third Country Interests' Directive (Defence of Democracy package.

However, much of the above is “unfinished business”, that is, open policy dossiers that need to be followed up by the new institutions in the coming mandate. Civil society needs to remain vigilant and continue working together for a comprehensive, coherent and pro-active European civil society strategy serving to help defend organisations working for the public good across the continent.

Unsurprisingly, civil society matters are missing from the agenda of the Hungarian Presidency of the EU Council – however, we believe the attention focused on our country provides a good opportunity to discuss these with representatives of European networks, umbrellas and institutions, thus raising awareness of the importance of these issues and of the fact that a strong civil society is an essential part of EU democracy.