Civil society organisations are the backbone of European democracy, ensuring that the voices of all communities—including the most marginalised—are heard in policy debates and decision-making. At a time when civil society faces mounting political attacks and funding threats across Europe, WAVE, together with a coalition of European networks and organisations, has reached out to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Commissioner for Budget Piotr Serafin to request an open dialogue on the future of EU support and protection of democratic, inclusive and pluralistic, civil society organisations.

This open letter highlights the key role we as civil society organisations play in protecting EU fundamental rights and values. It also underscores the urgent need to safeguard our constructive critical and watchdog roles, which are increasingly under pressure due to misrepresentation of our advocacy work and express concerns regarding the defunding of our sector, both of which threaten the ability of civil society to fulfil its democratic role.

WAVE is proud to be part of this coalition, bringing a feminist perspective and drawing attention to the specific challenges faced by women-led organisations and the far-reaching implications for the rights of women and girls. At the same time, we stand in solidarity with all civil society organisations working to defend human rights, social justice, and equality across Europe. By making this letter public, we call for transparent, constructive engagement with the European Commission in the context of the drafting of the first EU civil society strategy and the upcoming Multiannual Financial Framework. We invite leaders of EU institutions to engage with us in this crucial conversation and to reaffirm the central role of civil society—including women’s rights organisations—as pillars of democracy and human rights.