Our contribution to the consultation on the EU Civil Society Strategy
Civil society across Europe is under growing pressure, with organisations defending human rights and equality facing increasing threats. The European Commission is now developing its first-ever EU Civil Society Strategy: a crucial chance to protect and empower the organisations that keep democracy and rights alive.
Organisations working on gender equality, SRHR and minority rights are facing growing hostility, from smear campaigns to funding cuts and even institutional attacks. Human Rights Defenders, especially women, LGBTIQ+ activists and those fighting harmful practices like FGM, are targeted simply for standing up for justice.
For FGM-affected communities, grassroots and community-led groups are often the only lifeline, offering safe spaces, trusted support and real solutions. That is why the EU Civil Society Strategy matters, and why we made sure our network’s voices and the voices of the communities we represent were heard in this consultation.
What End FGM EU is calling for:
Support: CSOs need long-term, flexible funding that truly works for all, not just the biggest players. Grassroots and volunteer-based organisations must have equal access to EU resources, with simple applications and reduced bureaucracy. Dedicated funding is needed for community-led action against gender-based violence, including FGM.
Protection: Civil society must be shielded from intimidation and attacks. We want an EU-wide system that can respond quickly when organisations or activists are under threat, with emergency funds, accountability mechanisms, and strong protections for those most at risk.
Engagement: Decisions about our lives cannot be made without us. The EU must create real, ongoing spaces for civil society, especially smaller, grassroots, and community-led groups, to participate in shaping policies at every stage. Communities affected by FGM must be at the table, not as tokens but as partners.
Why this fight matters:
Without a strong and independent civil society, democracy weakens, human rights erode, and communities are left unprotected. For us, it is about ensuring that the voices of FGM-affected women and girls are not silenced, and that grassroots movements have the power and resources to lead change.
The EU Civil Society Strategy is a chance to turn the tide, but only if it is bold, intersectional, and backed by real political will. We call on the European Commission and all Member States to step up, listen to those on the frontlines, and commit to protecting and empowering civil society.
