Civic Space 2040 Initiative

PUBLISHED MARCH 2020

Philanthropic giving by foundations and individuals is set to remain an important source of funding for independent civil society in the future. This briefing explores key trends in philanthropy and their possible impact on civic space.

Over the next two decades, environmental, technological, and demographic trends will dramatically change how we live our lives. A vibrant civic space is essential to ensure everyone can fully participate in shaping this future. ICNL launched Civic Space 2040 — a futurist initiative to craft a positive vision for civic space and map strategies to make it a reality. The initiative explores trends that will radically transform the future and discusses ways in which these trends will affect civic space. This briefing, authored by Poonam Joshi, is one in a series commissioned by ICNL to help inform civic space advocates about the opportunities and challenges ahead.