Across Europe, civil society organizations are facing growing pressure. Democratic backsliding, political polarization, declining trust in institutions, disinformation, inflation, insecurities and increasing attacks on NGOs are reshaping the environment in which nonprofit organizations operate. While these trends are often associated with countries in Central and Eastern Europe, they are increasingly visible across Western Europe as well, including Austria.
This session explores the current state of civic space in Europe through a fundraising and civil society lens. Drawing on recent societal and political developments, with a special focus on Austria, we will examine how public narratives about civil society are changing and how these shifts affect trust, legitimacy, and philanthropic support.
At the same time, the session moves beyond diagnosis and focuses on solutions. What can civil society organizations do when negative narratives gain traction? How can fundraisers help strengthen public support for civic engagement, democracy, and solidarity?
Participants will discover inspiring examples of positive narrative campaigns and collective actions from Austria, Germany, and France. From sector-wide initiatives to innovative communications strategies, these examples demonstrate how civil society can proactively shape the narrative rather than merely react to criticism.
