Shaping the Future of Civil Society: Reflections from the YMCA Accelerator Summit

12th December 2024 by Myriam Ciza Gambini and Eva Gondor

In October, Myriam Ciza Gambini and Eva Gondor, had the opportunity to contribute to, and participate in the YMCA Accelerator Summit, taking place in Mombasa, Kenya. The Summit brought together over 450 people from 60 countries and aimed to accelerate YMCA’s Vision 2030, which serves as a roadmap for YMCA’s strategic objectives, aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Like many of its peers, YMCA is grappling with existential questions about its future and relevance in the civil society landscape. This event marked the first of its kind for YMCA, designed to create spaces for exchange, discussion, and collaboration within the movement. 

The Summit gathered YMCA delegates, international and local civil society partners, and private sector stakeholders to address key issues such as sustainability, youth employment, partnerships for impact as well as racial and youth justice. 

Foresights workshop at Myriam and panellists at YMCA Accelerator Summit
Eva Gondor facilitating the foresight workshop at the Summit

Exploring Strategic Foresight: Anticipating Possible Futures

At the Summit, we facilitated a foresight workshop based on our recently published “Toolkit for tomorrow: Anticipating civil society futures,” exploring how to prepare for and shape possible futures. The session aimed to help participants understand the value of futures thinking and foresight, craft possible future scenarios, and identify practical actions to address them. Futures thinking invites us to imagine a range of possible futures, enabling us to anticipate upcoming changes and better prepare for them today. Strategic foresight takes this a step further by using these future possibilities to guide decision-making and planning. During the workshop, participants explored trends affecting the civil society landscape, identifying growing inequality and climate injustice as key issues likely to have a significant impact by 2030. They then developed future scenarios that reflected the interplay of these two trends. By the end of the session, participants outlined actions to address these scenarios, such as strengthening advocacy efforts, working more closely with local communities, and prioritising long-term goals over short-term gains. After the workshop, several attendees expressed an interest in experimenting further with futures thinking. 

YMCA Powershift panel
Myriam Ciza Gambini took speaking at the plenary panel “Powershift in the Agenda for a Just World”

Powershift in the Agenda for a Just World 

In addition, Myriam Ciza Gambini took part in the plenary panel “Powershift in the Agenda for a Just World,” alongside Sunita Suna, Executive Secretary for Programs, Asia and Pacific Alliance of YMCAs and Mathias Shipeta, Rapid Response Officer at Haki Africa. The discussion focused on power dynamics in the sector, viewed through a Global North-South lens as well as a gender-inclusive, human rights perspective. Panellists explored how to foster an enabling environment for power shift, the role of citizen activism in changing the power hierarchy, and the opportunities it presents for social impact leaders. The panel was followed by a deep-dive session with the audience, discussing how organisations like YMCA can address internal power dynamics and contribute to a paradigm shift in the sector. 

Myriam and panellists at YMCA Accelerator Summit
Myriam Ciza Gambini and plenary panel colleagues

Final Thoughts: Strengthening Ecosystems 

Throughout the week, discussions also centred on how to connect grassroots initiatives and local partners with global movements in a meaningful and non-extractive way, fostering ecosystem strengthening. Several sessions explored how governance still represents a key challenge in ensuring the adequate representation of the communities that organisations like YMCA serve. It was inspiring to learn about their efforts to diversify boards and decision-making bodies. 

The Summit gave us a unique opportunity to witness the scope and influence of the global YMCA movement. We look forward to continuing our collaboration with YMCA in their mission to empower communities and young people worldwide, building a just, sustainable, and inclusive future. 

Myriam Ciza Gambini

Project Manager

International Civil Society Centre

Myriam coordinates the “Accelerating Inclusive Power Shift” project, which aims to foster equitable partnerships and more inclusive governance models in the development and humanitarian sectors. Prior to joining the Centre, she worked on EU development policy in Brussels for CONCORD and Humanity & Inclusion and with CBM in Italy.

Eva Gondor

Senior Project Manager

International Civil Society Centre

Eva leads on the Centre's civic space work - the Solidarity Action Network (SANE) aimed at strengthening resilience of and solidarity among civil society actors, and the International Civic Forum (ICF), our annual civic space platform to network and identify opportunities for collaboration. Prior to joining the Centre she worked at the Robert Bosch Stiftung (Foundation) in Stuttgart where she managed the foundation’s projects focusing on civil society and governance in Turkey, the Western Balkans, and North Africa.


Navigating the Digital Landscape: Key Insights from the International Civic Forum 2024

12th December 2024 by Eva Gondor and Rachel Wilkinson
Every year, we bring together leaders from civil society and other sectors to discuss key civic space issues, build connections, and identify opportunities for collaboration at the International Civic Forum (ICF). This year we focused on how digital technology is transforming civic space and explored the implications of digital advancement for civic and civil society operating space.   

 

ICF 2024_ holding a phone and taking a photo of a speaker

 

Collaborating with our partner, the Civic Tech Innovation Network (CTIN), with whom we run our Digital Dialogues event series, we built on synergies and teamed up for their annual conference Civic Tech Innovation Forum (CTIF). At CTIF we hosted a masterclass on how strategic foresight can be applied by civil society to address misinformation and disinformation. The ICF took place immediately following the CTIF, fostering connections between the two events and providing a unique platform to share knowledge and insights.  

During the ICF, we examined how digital trends – ranging from digital authoritarianism and disinformation to the growing role of artificial intelligence (AI) – are reshaping civic space. Participants explored the challenges and opportunities that technology presents, shared experiences and best practices, and engaged in a foresight exercise to prepare for possible civic space futures. 

 

ICF 2024 Panel Presentation

 

Key Learnings and Reflections from the ICF 2024

1. Impact of digital technology on (shrinking) civic space

Civic space is increasingly under threat, with the rise of government surveillance, internet shutdowns, and restrictions on digital freedoms. Digital technology plays a dual role – it can contribute to the erosion of civic freedoms but also provide new tools for civil society to fight back. 

For example, technology can help expose human rights violations, amplify voices, and facilitate global advocacy and coalition-building. However, it also opens the door for new forms of digital repression, such as targeted disinformation campaigns and government surveillance. As we move forward, civil society organisations must engage with technology critically and actively manage its risks, while recognising its potential to drive positive change.

ICF 2024 _ group discussion

 

2. The need to prioritise and upskill on cybersecurity

Civil society organisations are now among the most targeted groups for cyberattacks. Whether large or small, they must prioritise cybersecurity to protect sensitive data and safeguard digital infrastructures. They need to stay informed about emerging digital threats and continually upskill staff to address them. This is not just a technical issue – it’s a fundamental aspect of protecting the work we do and the communities we serve. 

3. Bridging the digital divide and enabling accessibility

While digital technology offers incredible opportunities, we cannot overlook the global digital divide. Over 3 billion people remain offline, and many others face restrictions due to financial barriers or internet shutdowns. For civil society organisations looking to use technology to support and expand civic space, it is essential to ensure that digital solutions are inclusive and accessible. This includes offering offline versions of apps, ensuring data protection, and providing access to free tools like VPNs to overcome censorship. 

 

ICF - Robert Dersley collecting content for graphic illustration

 

4. Need for collective learning and collaboration

A central theme throughout the ICF was the importance of collaboration. Technology is constantly evolving, and staying ahead of emerging trends requires continuous learning and knowledge-sharing. This way, we can build on each other’s efforts instead of reinventing the wheel. From managing digital risks to understanding the impacts of AI, civil society organisations must take collective responsibility for building a more tech-savvy and resilient sector.

5. Artificial intelligence (AI) as a double-edged sword

AI has significant potential to support human rights and democracy, but it also comes with considerable risks. From privacy violations to the amplification of disinformation, the ICF underscored the need for vigilance. Civil society organisations must explore AI’s potential, for example for fact-checking and verifying information. At the same time, they must actively mitigate its risks, such as biased algorithms, and ensure that its deployment promotes fairness, inclusivity, and respect for human rights.

 

ICF presentation discussion

 

6. Anticipating possible futures for civic space

Strategic foresight helps civil society organisations anticipate and prepare for a range of future scenarios, allowing them to navigate potential changes in civic space more effectively. By exploring scenarios for 2030 – from civic space collapse to its transformation – participants identified first steps that civil society can take to respond to emerging digital trends. This proactive approach enables civil society organisations to strengthen resilience and adaptability, ensuring they are ready for multiple possible futures and can safeguard civic freedoms in an ever-changing environment. 


Final thoughts

In conclusion, the ICF emphasised that civil society has a responsibility to engage with digital technology and critically assess its impact, both positive and negative, on civic space. The digital tools we engage with should be used to amplify voices, protect human rights, and strengthen civic space. By understanding the digital landscape, advocating for responsible use of AI, strengthening cybersecurity, and closing the digital divide, civil society organisations can ensure technology remains a force for positive change, rather than one that undermines civic space. Through ongoing exchange, upskilling, collaboration, and strategic foresight, civil society can adapt to the digital age and continue defending and expanding civic space for a fairer and more resilient future. 


ICF participants 2024
Participants at the International Civic Forum 2024

Photos by Zibusiso Manzini-Moyo


International Civic Forum 2024 Graphic Illustration Recording

Day 1
International Civic Forum _Graphic Recording Day 1 by Robert Dersley
Illustration by Robert Dersley, 2024

Click here to view larger version

Day 2
International Civic Forum _Graphic Recording Day 2 by Robert Dersley
Illustration by Robert Dersley, 2024

Click here to view larger version

ICF Graphic illustratotor in action Robert Dersley
Robert Dersley in action, graphic recording

Eva Gondor

Senior Project Manager

International Civil Society Centre

Eva leads on the Centre's civic space work - the Solidarity Action Network (SANE) aimed at strengthening resilience of and solidarity among civil society actors, and the International Civic Forum (ICF), our annual civic space platform to network and identify opportunities for collaboration. Prior to joining the Centre she worked at the Robert Bosch Stiftung (Foundation) in Stuttgart where she managed the foundation’s projects focusing on civil society and governance in Turkey, the Western Balkans, and North Africa.

Rachel Wilkinson

Programme Manager – Futures and Innovation

International Civil Society Centre

Rachel leads the Futures and Innovation programme at the Centre. She is responsible for managing the portfolio of projects and events as well as leading and developing the Scanning the Horizon strategic peer learning platform. Rachel has more than 15 years of experience working in the third sector, on a national and international level, working for various ICSOs in international development and human rights in both London and Berlin.


Insights and Foresights: Learning on Mis-, Dis-, and Malinformation’ Series

12th December 2024 by Rachel Wilkinson

In today’s rapidly evolving information ecosystem, misinformation, disinformation, and malinformation poses significant threats to civil society organisations (CSOs). Recognising the urgency of this issue and the specific ways CSOs are impacted and targeted by polluted information, the International Civil Society Centre launched: Insights and Foresights Learning on Mis-, Dis-, and Malinformation. It examines current and emerging challenges facing civil society, implications from new digital technologies, as well as exploring new approaches and opportunities for CSOS to tackle mis, dis, and malinformation.   

Focusing on current insights and learnings on the information ecosystem, the series raises awareness of this growing challenge and the multifaced ways it affects civil society along with suggesting effective approaches for the sector to tackle these challenges. The project used strategic foresight methods to delve deeper into the issue and to look ahead to possible futures on misinformation, disinformation and malinformation and what that could this mean for civil society organisations. Asking questions, mapping trends, emerging signals and posing alternative scenarios.    

 Watch our explainer video here: 

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This series of pieces showcases the scope of the project’s findings, including:

  • Pioneering Approaches: Four case studies from CSOs tackling misinformation and disinformation.
  • A Futures Approach to Tackle Mis-, Dis-, and Malinformation: Exploring the importance and methodology of foresight to combat false information.
  • Trends Mapping: Analysis of political, economic, social, and technological trends in mis-, dis-, and malinformation, from current realities to future developments.
  • Scenarios: Four future scenarios for 2030, based on varying levels of regulation and CSO engagement.
  • Video Explainer: A visual summary of the effects of mis-, dis-, and malinformation.
  • Malinformation Article: Malinformation: A Nuanced and Critical Concern for Civil Society.
  • OECD Elections Article: The Stakes for Democracy: Tackling Disinformation and Promoting Electoral Integrity, highlighting the effects of mis-, dis-, and malinformation on democratic systems.
  • Islamic Relief Article: Islamic Relief Worldwide’s Strategic Response to Tackle Mis-, Dis-, and Malinformation, highlighting the organisation’s experiences with these threats.
  • Wikimedia Article (upcoming): Wikimedia’s Approach to Generative AI and Misinformation.

With this series, the Centre provides a comprehensive guide for CSOs navigating the complex and dynamic threats of mis-, dis-, and malinformation in the digital age.


View the series resource page here 


Watch our session at Global Perspectives 2024 introducing the series

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Rachel Wilkinson

Programme Manager – Futures and Innovation

International Civil Society Centre

Rachel leads the Futures and Innovation programme at the Centre. She is responsible for managing the portfolio of projects and events as well as leading and developing the Scanning the Horizon strategic peer learning platform. Rachel has more than 15 years of experience working in the third sector, on a national and international level, working for various ICSOs in international development and human rights in both London and Berlin.


Citizen Data Takes Centre Stage at the Fifth UN World Data Forum

11th December 2024 by Ayman Akkad

In mid-November 2024, Medellín, Colombia, played host to the fifth United Nations World Data Forum (UNWDF). Themed “Datutopia,” the Centre’s Leave No One Behind Partnership attended the Forum alongside over 2,000 participants, including representatives from national statistical offices (NSOs), academia, civil society, and global data partnerships. Over the course of four days, the forum tackled pressing questions about how to create an innovative and inclusive data ecosystem to support sustainable development. 


Citizen Data: A Cornerstone of Sustainable Development 

 
One of the event’s standout themes was the transformative potential of citizen data in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Citizen data, a form of crowdsourced information often contributed by individuals through community initiatives, digital platforms, and mobile devices, has proven to be an indispensable complement to traditional statistics. It has become particularly effective in shedding light on the realities of marginalised and underrepresented communities. 

Examples of its impact abounded. From mapping pollution in urban areas to capturing the social dynamics of hard-to-reach populations, citizen science projects were lauded for addressing gaps where official data sources falter. Crucially, the forum highlighted how such initiatives empower communities to shape their narratives and reclaim agency over how their realities are represented. 
 
Integrating citizen data into official statistics, panellists argued, could revolutionise decision-making and contribute to a broader “data commons,” a shared and open-access repository that fosters greater inclusivity. 

A Pivotal Role for the Collaborative on Citizen Data

Among the key players at UNWDF 2024 was the Collaborative on Citizen Data, a coalition dedicated to advancing the role of citizen-generated data in achieving the SDGs. The Collaborative, co-chaired by the Centre’s Leave No One Behind Partnership, was instrumental in guiding discussions on how citizen data could be effectively harnessed. 
 
Through its presentations, the Collaborative showcased the Copenhagen Framework on Citizen Data, which serves as a roadmap for implementing such initiatives. Practical examples came from country coalitions of the Centre’s Leave No One Behind Partnership, which illustrated how citizen contributions to the data value chain—from collection to analysis—can address challenges and ensure data reflects society’s diversity. 
 
Speakers emphasised that mainstreaming citizen data into global and national practices is essential for inclusive development. Their message was clear: sustainable development cannot succeed if it leaves marginalised voices unheard or unrepresented. 

Innovation and Inclusivity in the Data Landscape 

UNWDF 2024 was not short on forward-looking ideas. The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and geospatial data into the broader data ecosystem took centre stage too, with examples of how these technologies can accelerate analysis and reveal actionable insights. Yet, caution was urged. With AI’s rapid proliferation, participants stressed the importance of adhering to strict ethical standards to ensure transparency and fairness. 
 
Building a universally accessible data commons also garnered significant attention. Panellists underscored that bridging the gap between technical experts and local communities requires a shared and inclusive language. This vision, though ambitious, is pivotal for ensuring that data-driven decisions genuinely reflect the lived realities of people worldwide. 

Trust, Ethics, and the Role of Partnerships

The forum grappled with the thorny issues of data ethics and trust. As citizen data becomes integral to global development strategies, safeguarding privacy and maintaining ethical standards are paramount. Stakeholders debated the responsibilities of governments, private sector, and civil society in ensuring transparency and accountability within this burgeoning ecosystem. 
 
Equally, many participants rightly championed partnerships as the backbone of a robust data system. Successful collaboration between governments, academia, and grassroots organisations can help avoid duplication, maximise impact, and ultimately build a more equitable data ecosystem. Calls to involve youth more actively in data initiatives reflected a broader ambition to future-proof this movement. 

Shaping the Global Data Ecosystem: The Road Ahead

The Medellín Framework for Action, UNWDF 2024’s key outcome document, sets a course for adapting the Cape Town Global Action Plan to the realities of an evolving data landscape. It envisions a future where citizen data, geospatial intelligence, and traditional statistics work in tandem to address global challenges effectively. 
 
The next forum, scheduled for April 2026 in Saudi Arabia, promises to continue this momentum. With a focus on improving data quality and accessibility, it will include training sessions and competitions for small and medium-sized enterprises to develop innovative data solutions. 
 
As the curtains closed in Medellín, one lesson stood out: citizen data is no longer a peripheral consideration. It is a cornerstone of modern development strategies, bridging the divide between abstract statistics and the lived realities of individuals. In doing so, it ensures that the often-repeated mantra of the SDGs— “leave no one behind”—becomes a promise fulfilled. 


Related content

 

Ayman Akkad

Project Manager, Leave No One Behind

International Civil Society Centre

Ayman is the Project Manager for the Leave No One Behind partnership, at the International Civil Society Centre, joining the Centre in late 2024. With a multidisciplinary background in journalism, development, advocacy and strategic communications, he brings a wide range of experience to this role. He holds a master’s in Conflict Resolution from the Heller School at Brandeis University and a master’s degree in public policy from Princeton’ University’s School of Public and International Affairs. Ayman works towards democratizing policymaking by increasing citizen participation in decision-making and empowering communities to leverage technology for social change.


Truth and Trust and Technology: Highlights from the Global Perspectives Conference 2024

11th December 2024 by Rachel Wilkinson

 

 

Global Perspectives 2024

On November 26, 2024, the International Civil Society Centre held its annual Global Perspectives Conference, inviting experts and innovators to explore and discuss the theme “Truth, Trust, and Technology” and its significance for Civil Society Organisations (CSOs). This virtual event featured sessions on fighting misinformation and disinformation, building narratives based on trust to uphold human rights, examining the impact of digital technologies on mental health, and leveraging digital technologies for citizen data to allow a voice for marginalised communities. Additionally, the conference addressed deconstructing colonial practices in donor-recipient relationships.  

The conference kicked off with an opening address from UNDP Administrator Achim Steiner, who stated:

‘The use of words to deceive, confuse and provoke are not new. What is new is the sheer speed and intensity with which information, both true and false, now spreads across our digital landscape…in a world of splintering truth and diminishing trust, how can civil society, and by extension our global family, cooperate toward a sustainable and more just future for all?’’ 

This was followed by a compelling opening plenary on the pervasive issues of misinformation and disinformation. Expert leaders in the sector, underscored the indispensable role of civil society organisations (CSOs) in maintaining trustworthy information ecosystems. The discussions highlighted the necessity of responsible technology use, emphasising trust, accountability, and governance in the digital realm. The panel also explored intergenerational engagement and the potential of technology to foster human progress, stressing the importance of partnership and cooperation in building a hopeful future.

The second session focused on forging partnerships rooted in trust and solidarity to move forward localisation for ICSOs. Speakers shared insights on moving beyond colonial approaches and quantitative metrics, advocating for power shifts to local levels. The dialogue emphasised the importance of trust, vulnerability, and rethinking power dynamics to uplift communities effectively.

We were delighted to have a special addition to our monthly Digital Dialogue series as part of Global Perspectives. The panel discussed the impact digitalisation has on mental health, particularly in the context of work, and examined the ways in which digital technology could play a part in mental health support. The expert speakers highlighted the challenges and opportunities of digital technology in supporting mental health, advocating for comprehensive approaches to integrating digital tools, while maintaining privacy, into broader wellbeing strategies for CSOs.

The adverse effects of misinformation and disinformation are huge for CSOs and we need to mitigate its impact critically. Futures thinking is one method to do this. Futures thinking is a key area for the Centre and an approach and methodology we feel benefits CSOs greatly. Our session on futures thinking approaches, reflected on why CSOs should use strategic foresight in their work, showcasing some new strategic foresight resources we have developed on misinformation, disinformation and malinformation.

Currently we see civic space shrinking and an increase in anti-rights narratives. This session on building effective narratives, provided strategies for countering  these harmful narratives and promoting human rights. The discussion focused on the importance of framing messages that resonate with audience values and foster collaboration across organisations. The session concluded with the importance of building a global movement and how digital approaches can help foster trust, inclusion, and better human rights.

The last session of the day showcased the Leave No One Behind Initiative, who focus on leveraging citizen-generated data to empower marginalised communities. Panellists discussed challenges related to data quality, governance, and privacy, emphasising trust and community ownership. The role of philanthropy and the potential of AI in promoting social good were also highlighted.

The Global Perspectives Conference 2024 was a vibrant convergence of ideas and best practices, featuring diverse participants from international CSOs, politics, and beyond. The online format enabled broad participation, with over 1,000 registered participants, offering global perspectives and inclusive discussions.

The map below shows the diverse range of cities around the world participants joined us from:

Global Perspectives participation map

 

This year’s conference not only underscored the importance of truth and trust but also provided actionable insights for CSOs to navigate today’s complex online information landscape. As we look towards 2025, it is crucial for CSOs to continue fostering trust, embracing innovative solutions, and collaborating across sectors to address global challenges.


You watch all the session recordings here 


We have put together a number of additional resources related to each session for you to delve into deeper.

Session 1 – Civil Society at a Crossroads

📹 Watch now


Session 2 – Risk-sharing and Accountability for the Future of the Sector: Beyond Theory 

📹 Watch now

📝 Resources:


Session 3 – Mental Health in the Digital Age: How are civil society organisations using technology to advocate for mental well-being? 

📹 Watch now

📝 Resources:


Session 4 – Foresights and Insights on Misinformation, Disinformation and Malinformation: using Futures thinking approaches for CSOs

📹 Watch now

📝 Resources from the International Civil Society Centre


Session 5 – Building Effective Narratives to Counter Anti-Rights Groups and Foster Human Rights 

📹 Watch now

📝 Resources from ODI


Session 6 – Can Citizen Data and Digital Approaches Foster Trust and Inclusion?

📹 Watch now

📝 Resources:

 

Rachel Wilkinson

Programme Manager – Futures and Innovation

International Civil Society Centre

Rachel leads the Futures and Innovation programme at the Centre. She is responsible for managing the portfolio of projects and events as well as leading and developing the Scanning the Horizon strategic peer learning platform. Rachel has more than 15 years of experience working in the third sector, on a national and international level, working for various ICSOs in international development and human rights in both London and Berlin.