Brussels (TDI): European Union celebrated World NGO Day on Thursday, by endorsing its commitment to support and protect civil society.
Belen Martinez Carbonell, European External Action Service (EEAS) Secretary General, said that “the beating heart of democracy is civil society, which upholds freedom and amplifies citizens’ voices”.
She further said, “Civil society organizations create trust between states and within communities by building bridges where divisions are about to take hold”.
Civil society promotes peace and progress by making societies more inclusive.
It also fosters sustainable development and human rights in the world.
Belen Martinez Carbonell highlighted the fragile situation of democracy and human rights defenders, saying they are exposed to online and offline attacks containing surveillance, legal prosecution, and violent repression.
By mentioning the threats to civil society, she reaffirmed the EU’s support for civil society.
The European Union protects the fundamental freedoms of civil society by all diplomatic and financial means, she said.
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Marta kos, EU’s commissioner called NGOs the backbone of democracies and also delivered her gratitude to all the NGO workers for their courage, dedication, and persistence.
https://x.com/MartaKosEU/status/1895025731794600190?t=paGRGiygkMxzw6X5G9acTQ&s=19
Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, a Belarusian political activist, appreciated the resilience of NGOs who help people in need.
She highlighted the self-regulatory behavior of common people which unites Belarusian people.
https://x.com/Tsihanouskaya/status/1895072353425785330?t=bZlogbBJC2C52sgs898TOw&s=19
The European Union supports civil society within and outside the bloc.
It has approved the €1.5 billion Global Europe Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) program under NDICI-Global Europe for the years 2021–2027.
Civil society organizations outside the EU can receive financial support through this initiative.
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World NGO Day is a day to honor the efforts of NGOs around the world that work tirelessly to elevate communities, empower lives, and create constructive change.
With unity, kindness, and compassion, people can make the world a better place to live.
Governments and people all around the world pay tribute to these heroes for their selfless dedication on World NGO Day.
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