The world is facing a precarious state as documented in the 2025 State of Civil Society Report by CIVICUS, a global alliance of civil society organizations. The report articulates the alarming erosion of democratic freedoms and human rights, particularly amid escalating authoritarianism and societal upheaval.
CIVICUS’s latest report outlines challenges that threaten the foundations of democracy, as it embarks on a deep dive into the obstacles that civil society faces. “The world in 2025 is a dangerous place,” said Inés Pousadela, senior research specialist and co-author of the report. This assessment is a stark observation not only of current conflicts but also of systemic issues such as the increasing influence of oligarchs in politics, the rise of right-wing populism, and the alarming prevalence of disinformation.
The report underscores that 2024 was not just a challenging year; it was the hottest on record and marked by a plethora of crises that revealed the vulnerabilities of global political structures. Civilians have been subjected to violence in regions like Gaza, Sudan, and Ukraine, as highlighted within the report’s findings. Authors note that perpetrators of violence often confront no repercussions, which further challenges the principles of international law and human rights.
As disinformation campaigns proliferate, the checks and balances essential to democracy are increasingly undermined. Reporting a disturbing trend of ‘state capture’, the document reveals collaboration between right-wing politicians and powerful tech and media elites, leading to a rapid erosion of democratic dissent worldwide. The implications for civil society are dire, with major organizations facing crippling funding cuts as donor agencies reevaluate their priorities, aligning them with narrow national interests.
Notably, CIVICUS highlights how the malicious funding freeze imposed by USAID has significantly jeopardized many civil society organizations, placing them at existential risk. Despite these challenges, the report paints a picture of resilience and resistance. Civil society groups, fueled by grassroots activism, have successfully mobilized efforts to protect democratic processes, prevent backsliding, and advocate for justice across various geographical landscapes.
For instance, in countries like Bangladesh, Guatemala, and South Korea, strategic coalitions formed within civil society have been paramount in achieving meaningful victories. In 2024, civil society actions culminated in landmark changes, including legalizing same-sex marriage in Greece and Thailand, and constitutional amendments in France to safeguard abortion rights.
Moreover, legal precedents achieved through strategic litigation have compelled governments to undertake more ambitious climate action, a testament to civil society’s critical role in addressing the climate crisis.
With pressing global challenges at hand, the report emphasizes the need for civil society to adopt a flexible “movement mindset.” This adaptability is essential in ensuring that groups can keep pace with the rapidly changing socio-political climate and the needs of the communities they serve. “Rather than functioning as rigid bureaucratic organizations, structured to suit funder requirements, civil society groups must embrace flexibility,” the report suggests.
The integration of community connections remains paramount, particularly for marginalized populations that are frequently disconnected from mainstream decision-making processes. Authentic engagement with these communities fosters trust and empowers those most affected by policy decisions.
A notable recommendation includes reinforcing early warning systems designed to track threats to civil society, ranging from legislative changes to more overt attacks against activists. The ability to mobilize quickly in response to emerging threats is crucial for the effectiveness of civil society initiatives.
As Andrew Firmin, editor-in-chief of CIVICUS, puts it, “Efforts to engage people in governance, hold power accountable and build reform coalitions don’t always make headlines, but they show how people can mobilize to protect democracy.” In the face of adversity, civil society’s ability to adapt and innovate will be key to its perseverance.
The challenges outlined in the 2025 State of Civil Society Report serve as a clarion call for urgent action. The document urges stronger civil society involvement in promoting democracy and welfare, alongside calls for UN reform to bolster its engagement with civil society. Additionally, the report advocates for wealth taxation for the ultra-rich and emphasizes the need to facilitate climate resilience in lower-income nations.
Thus, while calling for fundamental changes and international cooperation, the report also focuses on the local, insisting that grassroots movements remain foundational in the fight for democracy. Civil society represents both the frontline and the last line of defense against oppression, serving as a beacon of hope amid turmoil.
Inés Pousadela reiterated, “But we also see courageous activists and communities carrying the torch of hope, proving that a more peaceful, just, equal, and sustainable world is not only possible but already in the making through civil society and citizen action.” The call for collective action is not merely an acknowledgment of the dangers that lie ahead but also a hopeful message that through unity and cooperation, change is achievable. In these dark times, civil society must continue to shine as a guiding light towards renewal and justice.
