Updates

This overview highlights the trends, immediate concerns and promising developments shaping the space for civic action since early 2025, pointing to where further investment can amplify impact in the region.

The new law and verification system promises faster and safer aid delivery, yet it also raises new compliance hurdles.

A new legislative package by the Armenian government aims to strengthen public data management and digital services. While reflecting many CSO recommendations, it still awaits parliamentary adoption and leaves some concerns unresolved.

The draft law aims to treat information not accepted by the government as “propaganda” and expands the grounds for restricting freedom of expression and the right to privacy.

Civil society will be a strategic partner helping institutions tackle the main challenges of this age – but only if it has a seat at the table, as highlighted at the CSO Meter Civil Society Days 2025.

Belarusian parliament plans to reintroduce the draft law On Volunteer Activity, frozen since 2021.

A law which would set back Ukraine’s democratic progress sparked protests and large international criticism.

The new law, passed in first reading by Parliament, introduces long-awaited reforms to regulate, recognise and support voluntary activities.

Individuals can now end up on the list of people involved in extremist activities for violating the procedure for receiving and using foreign aid.

New youth policy legislation opens diverse funding channels for youth CSOs and introduces long-term institutional support mechanisms.

The new law does not introduce any significant changes to the registration of legal entities, nor does it correct current drawbacks.

The roadmaps lay the groundwork for democratic reforms and were created with civil society participation.