Our aim was not only to share and discuss the preliminary findings of our civic space monitoring and the threats that may weaken democratic institutions and civil society, but also to strengthen cooperation and regional connections among organisations working across different fields. The meetings included discussions on the concrete impacts political changes after the elections could have on public debate, democratic institutions, civil society organisations, and local associations and initiatives.

The meetings built on the civic space monitoring carried out within the PROSECO project and created a space for feedback on preliminary expert findings. Participants shared their experiences from the field and identified concrete challenges from the perspective of different parts of civil society. Discussions touched on issues such as societal polarisation, declining trust in public institutions, and the stigmatization of non-governmental organisations — particularly as representatives of civil society experience these dynamics in their day-to-day work.

From the participants’ perspective, especially pressing issues included disinformation campaigns, uncertainty surrounding civil society funding, possible restrictions targeting civil society, and other forms of political pressure that could emerge after the elections.

An important part of the meetings was also the sharing of international experiences and discussions on how the gradual dismantling of democratic mechanisms unfolds in countries where the rule of law and civic space are being weakened — including the specific challenges this creates for effective democratic defence efforts. We presented participants with scenarios and risks based on our forecasts, ongoing analyses and expert monitoring.

Alongside information sharing, a key objective of the meetings was to strengthen regional connections and create space for long-term cooperation. We discussed how local organisations, initiatives and active individuals can jointly respond to potential threats to democratic principles and what forms of solidarity and mutual support can be developed at both regional and national levels.

The meetings also opened a broader debate on the importance of civic space for the functioning of a democratic state. Civil society is not only a provider of services or a voice for specific groups of citizens; it is also a crucial part of democratic infrastructure — a space where trust is built, public power is held accountable, and society develops the capacity to collectively address complex challenges.

One of the long-term goals of the PROSECO project is to strengthen cooperation among civil society organisations, their networks and other stakeholders at the local, national and European levels. Regional organisations and grassroots initiatives often have the deepest understanding of the specific problems facing local communities and are also able to respond quickly to emerging challenges and crises. Within the Network for the Protection of Democracy, we have long sought ways to strengthen cooperation with such organisations beyond formal membership structures.

We therefore see the regional meetings not as isolated events, but as part of a broader process of building a more resilient civil society capable of better protecting democratic values, the rule of law and an open civic space.

We would like to thank all organisations, initiatives and individuals who participated in the regional meetings, shared their experiences and contributed to the collective discussion on the future of democracy and civil society in the Czech Republic.