Countering shrinking space: How multilateral development banks can empower civil society in the Western Balkans, Caucasus and Central Asia

Report    |    25 February 2025

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This report examines how multilateral development banks have failed to adequately protect civil society in the Caucasus, Western Balkans, and Central Asia. Despite their considerable influence, the world’s leading development banks lack robust systems to engage and protect civil society organisations, and often fail to recognise how shrinking civic space undermines their efforts to achieve the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Insights from civil society representatives in these regions highlight significant challenges, particularly in countries where repressive governments actively seek to restrict their operations.

The report offers concrete recommendations for the World Bank Group, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, the Asian Development Bank, and the European Investment Bank, outlining specific measures to counter the erosion of civic space, foster a more enabling environment for civil society, protect human rights, and ultimately better achieve their development objectives.