Supporting democracy in a changing landscape
European democracy support is facing growing challenges, from shrinking civic space and democratic backsliding to declining development funding and increasingly complex operating environments.
This policy brief is the final output of an assignment commissioned by Enabel in 2025. It examines how European actors can respond more effectively to challenges facing civic space and local democratic governance.
The brief highlights gaps in current approaches and identifies practical opportunities for stronger coordination, more adaptive support and better use of existing European mechanisms, including Team Europe and the Global Gateway.
Drawing on research, analysis and case studies, it provides actionable recommendations for European institutions, Member States and other actors seeking to translate democratic commitments into more coherent and effective action.