PUBLISHED: JULY 2015

This report, by Dr. Tomicah Tillemann, addresses the gap between the aspirations of governments that want to safeguard civic space and the actions required to realize that goal. It identifies concrete policies, practices and personnel actions that offer a roadmap for officials as they confront an epidemic of new restrictions on civil society organizations. The report is based on a ten-point checklist for governments. These recommendations are accompanied by in-depth analysis and real-world examples. Findings are based on research from over 30 countries and the pooled knowledge of a broad range of individuals and organizations. The report sets out clear metrics for those looking to evaluate the progress of government efforts to protect civil society. He focuses not only on what should get done but also on how to get it done. The result is an invaluable tool for governments and diplomats worldwide.

Dr. Tillemann is the Director of Bretton Woods II and a senior fellow at New America. Between 2010 and 2014, he served under Hillary Clinton and John Kerry as the Secretary of State’s Senior Advisor for Civil Society and Emerging Democracies.