How to talk about Civic Space: A guide for progressive civil society facing smear campaigns

2021

by Israel Butler

This guide supports campaigners in responding to smear campaigns that undermine public trust in civil society organisations working on progressive causes. Drawing on research into public attitudes, it explores how such attacks are used by authoritarian actors to justify restrictions on civic space. Grounded in the EU context, the resource provides practical guidance on framing, including examples of effective narratives, messages, and approaches, as well as common pitfalls to avoid.