we build bridges
between civil societies
The Civil Society Forum is a network of non-governmental organisations working across Wider Europe
Solidarity
We support civil society and HRDs at risk/ in need
The Bridges We Build
Advocacy
We connect civil society and decision-makers
Civil society needs a voice at the table. By acting as a bridge between grassroots movements and official bodies, we amplify the collective power of our network.We advocate for policies that protect democracy, human rights and the rule of law.
– We engage with EU institutions and national governments.
– We translate grassroots needs into policy recommendations.
– We ensure civil society actors have the resources and representation they need to thrive.
Network
We connect civil societies across borders and strengthen their voices
Challenges to civil society don’t stop at borders. Neither should solutions. Our network includes 155 member organisations from 21 countries (map?). We enable peer learning, common projects, joint advocacy and cross-border solidarity. No organisation stands alone—being part of the Forum means having allies across Wider Europe.
- our values
pluralistic democracy, rule of law, human rights, social and climate justice
countries represented
CSF organisations
events annually
We believe in the civil society beyond borders. That’s why we work across Wider Europe to strengthen connections rooted in solidarity, dialogue and resistance to war.
years of operation
Our programmes
Bringing together changemakers from across Wider Europe to strengthen civil society, defend human rights and drive real change.
Berlin Hub
A floating market of ideas for civil society
The Berlin Hub, launched by the Civil Society Forum (CSF), reflects the belief that civil society thrives on real connections, honest conversations, and mutual care. In a world increasingly shaped by disinformation, polarization and isolation, Berlin Hub acts as a dynamic space where changemakers – artists, activists, scientists, journalists and exiled leaders converge to collaborate and reimagine solutions.
Europe Lab
A leadership programme for young changemakers
Europe Lab, started by CSF in 2015, is an annual event and a platform for professional networking and cooperation for students, young professionals and young change-makers in their 20s and 30s from Wider Europe.
Confronting Memories
explore the phenomenon of historical memory
What is the connection between the past and the present? How do historical events shape different countries and societies today? With this programme, we create a space for meaningful dialogue with diverse perspectives on the history of the 20th century.
Publications
The State of Civil Society Report
The State of Civil Society Report is an annual publication of the Civil Society Forum dedicated to the situation in civil societies in Wider Europe. International experts are invited to compile reports and carefully study various aspects of public problems faced by civil society. The 2022 report focused on climate activism in Wider Europe. The 2023 report is released in 2024 and focus on migration and displaced people on our continent.
- Putting Our Values to Work
How
We Work
[01]
We listen & act
We work hand-in-hand with our member organisations, local communities and partners, designing and delivering projects relevant to their needs.
[03]
We advocate & amplify
We speak up for our members, advocating for them and amplifying their voices to ensure they have the resources, visibility and influence needed to drive the change.
We Work
[02]
We bring people together
Some of the best ideas come from unexpected places. We bridge civil society actors through unconventional formats, peer networks and cross-sector engagement.
[04]
We stand in solidarity
When civil society actors are at risk, we provide emergency aid, psychological support or safe spaces to those facing danger and burnout.
How
We Work
[01]
We listen & act
We work hand-in-hand with our member organisations, local communities and partners, ensuring that the work we do meets their needs.
[02]
We bring people together
Some of the best ideas come from unexpected places. We bridge civil society actors through unconventional formats, peer networks and cross-sector engagement.
[03]
We advocate & amplify
We speak up for our members, advocating for them and amplifying their voices to ensure they have the resources, visibility and influence needed to drive the change.
[03]
We stand in solidarity
When civil society actors are at risk, we provide emergency aid, psychological support or safe spaces to those facing danger and burnout.
