The rapid escalation of violence across the SWANA region is causing devastating consequences for civilians, activists, and communities already living under severe political and economic pressures. In recent weeks, Israeli military operations have expanded far beyond Gaza, with airstrikes hitting cities across Iran, including Tehran and Isfahan, causing widespread destruction and civilian deaths. These attacks have reportedly killed more than a thousand people and damaged key infrastructure.

At the same time, Lebanon has once again been pulled into war. Israeli airstrikes have targeted Beirut and multiple towns across southern and eastern Lebanon, killing hundreds and displacing nearly 700,000 people to date. Entire communities have been forced to flee their homes as bombardments continue, many with limited options for safe and dignified shelter, as Israeli military operations expand across the country.

There is also evidence of the illegal use of white phosphorus in populated areas in southern Lebanon. This raises serious concerns about violations of international humanitarian law and the protection of civilians.

These developments are unfolding in a region where civic space has already been under sustained attack. War and militarization further silence dissent, restrict freedoms, and expose human rights defenders, journalists, and civil society actors to extreme risks. However, rather than strengthening support for citizens’ movements, OECD countries are cutting back on the very resources that grassroots’ actors need to survive. This retreat undermines democratic resilience at the precise moment when it is most urgently required.

Hivos is committed to promoting democratic governance and human rights. Our work with grassroots communities across regions has shown us that democratic life grows through participation, accountability, and the protection of human dignity. These foundations are weakened when conflict escalates. Civic engagement becomes harder to sustain; repression intensifies, and the communities working to build more just societies face growing danger.

From years of working closely with grassroots movements, we know that war does not produce freedom, justice, or stability. It produces loss and trauma that carry across generations. Each escalation leaves behind lives cut short, families displaced, and societies forced to rebuild under conditions that make democratic life more fragile.

The consequences extend beyond the battlefield. Modern warfare deepens environmental destruction and accelerates pressures on a planet already facing an escalating climate crisis. Resources that should sustain life are diverted to sustain war, while land, water, and air absorb the costs of militarization.

Our work is grounded in the belief that civil and political rights enable societies to organize, speak out, and hold those in power accountable. When civic space is attacked, the ability of people to claim justice and shape their own future is also placed at risk.

In moments like this, solidarity must also translate into concrete support. And courage alone cannot sustain a democratic life. As OECD countries expand their defense budgets, they must also commit to matching investments in civil society’s support. Without this balance, the promise of security will remain hollow, and the voices of citizens striving for justice and dignity will be further marginalized.

Hivos continues to support partners and human rights defenders through existing emergency assistance mechanisms, including the Bessy Ferrera Fund and the Digital Defenders Partnership emergency support. These mechanisms provide specific support to individuals and organizations facing serious threats that affect their safety and ability to continue their work. Assistance is provided according to established criteria and capacity of these mechanisms.

Hivos will continue to stand alongside those defending civic space, amplifying their voices and supporting their efforts to resist repression and build more just and inclusive societies.