Envisioning a More Connected Civil Society: The Civil Society Facility for the Mediterranean (CSFM) Blueprint

Bridging Dialogues Across the Mediterranean The Civil Society Facility for the Mediterranean (CSFM) stands as a testament to the European Union’s commitment to fostering an inclusive, vibrant, and participatory democracy across the Southern Neighborhood. Through the CSFM, a structure for open and sustained dialogue between civil society, the EU, and governmental authorities is not just an aspiration but a tangible reality, embarking on a journey since 2013 and revitalized in 2023 to deepen these conversations.

A Foundation for Structured Dialogue At its core, CSFM aims to support the EU and Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in their collaborative dialogue efforts. By providing technical coordination, facilitating synergies, and offering methodological support, the CSFM enhances the efficacy of regional dialogues, making every conversation count towards meaningful change. This initiative roots its philosophy in the belief that structured dialogue is key to addressing the complex challenges faced by societies across the Mediterranean.

The Essence of Structured Dialogue Structured Dialogue, as conceptualized by the EU, is a comprehensive approach to engaging with stakeholders in a planned, regular, and transparent manner. It goes beyond mere consultations to establish a platform for civil society actors to influence policies and programs, leveraging the diverse range of voices from local to national levels. This dialogue fosters a two-way communication, building on mutual interests and ensuring a follow-up with continued feedback.

The Value of Engagement The CSFM underscores the pivotal role civil society plays in echoing citizens’ concerns and promoting democratic values. For civil society, this process offers a unique opportunity to enhance their capacity for action and engagement, connect with counterparts across the region, and foster collaborative governance. Moreover, it serves as a powerful medium to advocate for civic space and fundamental freedoms, aligning with the core values upheld by the EU.

Who Leads the Dialogue? This collaborative venture sees participation from key EU actors, including the European Commission Headquarters in Brussels and the European External Action Service, alongside representatives from the 10 partner countries. The EU has also established Framework Partner Agreements with six civil society organizations active in the Mediterranean, ensuring a broad and inclusive representation in the dialogue process.

Objectives and Implementation The CSFM sets forth clear objectives to identify entry points for civil society to influence EU policies and programs, foster open relationships between EU institutions and civil society, and create a network of actors with relevant expertise. The implementation revolves around annual cycles featuring thematic webinars, working groups, national engagements, and the Civil Society Forum, each designed to progressively build a cohesive community of practice.