Updates

The amendments in the Broadcasting Law and Law on Assemblies and Demonstrations raise concerns over media freedom and, ultimately, the rights to freedom of assembly and expression.

Including public schools and educational institutions in the percentage mechanism risks endangering a vital source of income for CSOs

The 2022 Regional Report highlights the trends and changes in the civil society environment in Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Moldova and Ukraine.

The government announced a flurry of changes for state-funded civil society projects.

Civil society heavily criticised the draft law, noting that it lacks a solid basis.

Organisers are required to sign contracts for thousands of euros for policing, medical and cleaning services, with no guarantee the permission for the assembly will be granted.

The state sets forth new 2023-2026 plans to expand social service provision jointly with CSOs.

Authorities declared Viasna Human Rights Center as “extremist” and can prosecute anyone cooperating with the organisation.

Azerbaijan is no longer part of the global partnership of 75 countries and 104 local governments working with thousands of CSOs to promote transparent, participatory and accountable governance.

The law draft addresses most of the recommendations of the CSO Meter report, but a few problematic provisions remain.

The use of administrative detention has been criticised as an unacceptable practice that violates the right to peaceful assembly.

New regulations will benefit commercial entities and public authorities; impact on CSO crowdfunding still needs to be clarified.