Programs

PROGRAM 1
Enabling Environment for Civil Society

The program focuses on strengthening the legislative, financial, and operational framework to ensure that civil society organizations, the media, and the academic community have stable and predictable working conditions in Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Western Balkans region.

We measure all of this through the annual Monitoring Matrix research. By monitoring and aligning regulations, improving practices for allocating budget funds, and overseeing the transparency of public financing, we open and protect space for civic engagement.

At the same time, we strengthen the resilience of the sector and the media through advisory support and partnerships, encourage dialogue on labor standards and workers’ rights within CSOs, and coordinate rapid social interventions when communities face crises.

The heart of the program is our annual initiative CIVILKA — a fully volunteer-based, zero-budget activity that we implement each year on an important topic of public interest. CIVILKA is intentionally independent: it brings together diverse actors in open and bold dialogue and concludes with clear messages, recommendations, and small, feasible steps that drive change.

Through this program, we measure progress in creating a fairer and more robust regulatory framework for CSOs, a more transparent public budget allocation system, stronger cross-sector cooperation, and increased public trust and credibility in civil society.

PROGRAM 2
Citizen Participation in Decision-Making

We establish and improve participation mechanisms from the local to the EU level and strengthen the capacities of institutions and CSOs for high-quality dialogue.

Our focus includes public consultations, initiatives containing anti-SLAPP provisions, and the draft Law on Citizens’ Initiative and Protection of Activists in the Federation of BiH; work on amendments to the Labor Law of FBiH with recognition of the specific role of CSOs as employers; empowering civil servants and citizens through workshops and advisory sessions; and monitoring the implementation of consultation rules and key regulations.

Additionally, through the Civil Society Council, we contribute to discussions on electoral legislation and constitutional reforms.

PROGRAM 3
Active Participation of CSOs in EU Integration

We strengthen the role of CSOs in EU integration through thematic networks, capacity-building, cross-border cooperation, and tripartite dialogue involving CSOs, government institutions, and the EU, as well as CSOs, employers’ associations, and trade union confederations.

Our work focuses on participation in European processes—from IPA consultations to membership in the European Economic and Social Committee. We frequently launch mini-campaigns and initiatives involving diverse actors, facilitate local dialogues, and mobilize interested organizations.

Through the “Now is the Right Time” Declaration, we mobilized more than 100 CSOs and delivered a clear message that civil society supports opening accession negotiations with the EU. We also organize regional discussions on the Common Regional Market as a step toward EU integration, with a strong emphasis on transparency and inclusiveness.