With rising restrictions on civil society and freedom of expression across the world, digital tools have offered new opportunities for safe collaboration and access to information. Yet these tools are also increasingly being undermined by sophisticated digital surveillance and attacks from both state and non-state actors.
To address these challenges, Hivos, with support from NORAD, is implementing the Connect, Defend, Act! (CDA) project. It supports Civil Society Actors (CSAs) in Colombia, Indonesia, Malawi, and the Occupied Palestinian Territory by strengthening civic space through coalition building, safer digital environments and enhanced capacity for rapid response to emerging threats. The CDA project particularly focuses on empowering marginalized groups, including women, youth, LGBTIQ+ persons, and Indigenous communities, ensuring their participation in the defense and expansion of civic space.
Understanding civic space
The 2024 Baseline Studies conducted in Colombia, Indonesia and Malawi provide insights into the state of civic space in these countries. The findings offer a foundation for evidence-based interventions, enabling Hivos and its partners to design responsive strategies that amplify civil society-led action.
These baseline reports show the need to continuously defend and expand civic space in these countries. By forming coalitions, strengthening the digital environment, and aiding rapid response mechanisms, the CDA project equips CSAs to navigate these challenges more effectively.
Download the Baseline Studies from each of the countries below:
