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Across Europe, civic space is shrinking, posing a challenge to human rights defenders (HRDs) and civil society organizations (CSOs) which are increasingly facing repression through criminalization, securitization policies, financial and political attacks, and growing
authoritarianism. The rise of the far-right has further escalated these threats, limiting
fundamental freedoms and weakening civil society’s ability to operate.
Media freedom is also under threat, with independent journalism facing censorship, political pressure, and disinformation campaigns. These developments undermine democratic norms, weaken checks and balances, and restrict public participation in political processes. As pluralism declines and democratic backsliding continues, concerns grow over the future of human rights, social cohesion, and the rule of law in the region.
In a hostile environment, coordinated action is essential to protect civic space and ensure that human rights defenders (HRDs) and civil society organizations (CSOs) can continue their vital work.
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Human Rights Defenders (HRDs) are people who, individually or with others, act to promote
or protect human rights in a peaceful manner according to the United Nations’ definition. It is important to point out that HRDs are not necessarily self-defined as such. However, their
activity denouncing injustice and oppression makes them so. This definition encompasses a diversity of people including journalists, academia, activists, organizers, NGOs, etc.
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