Tracking civic space trends

by United Nations Human Rights Office to the High Commissioner

Published | July 2024

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Summary

The "Civic Space Brief: Tracking Civic Space Trends" underscores the importance of monitoring the evolving landscape of civic space to identify emerging challenges and opportunities. It highlights the necessity for stakeholders to collect and analyse data on incidents affecting individuals and organisations, assess legal and institutional frameworks, and monitor online spaces to craft effective policies that promote human rights.

Why read

Understanding the dynamics of civic space is crucial for actors aiming to safeguard public freedoms. This brief provides insights into the methodologies for tracking civic space trends, enabling stakeholders to respond promptly to concerns and enhance their advocacy strategies. By familiarising themselves with the challenges and recommended actions outlined, civic space actors can better navigate and influence the environments in which they operate.

Description

The OHCHR’s brief emphasises that tracking civic space trends is essential due to its constantly evolving nature, which presents both challenges and opportunities. Regular monitoring enables authorities and relevant actors to detect emerging issues, respond in a timely manner, and develop effective policies and programmes. To address key challenges in assessing civic space, the brief recommends actions for states and those assessing civic space trends, such as maximising access to relevant data, ensuring the safety of data collectors, integrating innovative monitoring tools, and recognising the vital contributions of on-the-ground data collectors. By implementing these recommendations, stakeholders can enhance their understanding of civic space dynamics and contribute to the promotion of human rights, sustainable development, and peace.

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