The World Assembly on Democracy and Civic Space 2024 is a critical platform for civil society organizations, activists, human rights defenders, and other stakeholders to come together and discuss the challenges faced by civic space globally and in Asia. The conference aims to build a collective understanding of the shrinking of civic space and identify strategies to strengthen it.

In recent years, there has been a concerning trend of shrinking civic space globally. This has been characterized by restrictions on the ability of civil society organizations to operate freely, the intimidation and harassment of activists and human rights defenders, and the imposition of restrictive laws and regulations. This trend has been particularly pronounced in Asia, where many governments have sought to limit the role of civil society in shaping public policy and challenging government actions.

The shrinking of civic space has significant implications for democratic governance, human rights, and social justice. When civil society organizations are unable to operate freely and carry out their work, it becomes challenging to hold governments accountable, advocate for human rights, and promote democratic values. This, in turn, can lead to a further erosion of democratic institutions and processes, as well as increased inequality and injustice.

The World Assembly on Democracy and Civic Space is a response to this trend, aiming to provide a platform for civil society organizations to share their experiences and strategies in responding to the shrinking of civic space during the WSF. The conclave will bring together civil society organizations from across the world to share best practices and collaborate on strategies to strengthen civic space.

Objectives

The main objectives of the World Assembly on Democracy and Civic Space are:

1. To provide a platform for civil society organizations, activists, and human rights defenders to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing civic space globally and in Asia.
2. To develop strategies and solutions for strengthening civic space, protecting the rights of civil society actors, and promoting democratic participation.
3. To build networks and alliances among civil society organizations and human rights defenders, with a view to enhancing collaboration and collective action on civic space issues.

Outcomes

The possible outcomes of the World Assembly on Democracy and Civic Space include:

1. Increased awareness and understanding of the challenges faced by civil society organizations and human rights defenders in the global and Asian context.
2. Develop and declare “World Social Forum- World Assembly on Democracy and Civic Space Declaration 2024” with concrete strategies and recommendations to promote and protect civic space, including advocacy and networking opportunities.
3. Strengthened alliances and collaborations among civil society organizations, human rights defenders, and other stakeholders working to protect civic space, leading to greater solidarity and collective action.