Global Perspectives 2025: Towards a Thriving Civil Society in Times of Uncertainty

In an era defined by crisis and transformation, collaboration had never been more essential to the health and future of civil society. This fireside chat was an open, thought-provoking conversation about how shared values, participation, inclusivity, social justice, accountability and solidarity could drive a thriving, resilient sector.

Together, participants reflected on where civil society stood at the time, how shrinking civic space was navigated, how global challenges were addressed, and how the balance between reaction and vision was understood. Drawing on real-world examples, the session explored how collaboration could take many forms, from decolonised partnerships with local actors to cross-sector engagement with governments, movements and the private sector.

Looking ahead, the discussion asked what transformations were needed to ensure a vibrant and visionary civil society for the future. It examined the values and red lines that had to be upheld and considered how collaboration could help rethink, reconnect and reimagine the path forward.

Speakers

As global challenges grew more complex, the role of civil society in safeguarding democratic values and fostering inclusive cooperation had never been more vital. This panel brought together diverse voices to explore how civic space could be protected and strengthened, and how civil society could effectively engage in shaping resilient democracies.

Together, participants took a wide look at the evolving landscape of civic engagement, examining trends in multilateral collaboration, the opportunities and challenges for cross-sector cooperation, and what truly united people in pursuit of shared goals. By hearing perspectives both from within and beyond traditional civil society organisations, participants gained fresh insights into how collaboration and innovation could help reimagine the future of civic action.

Civil society continued to evolve, finding new ways to connect, collaborate and lead with purpose. This session explored how organisations were not only navigating shifting realities but also shaping more hopeful and resilient futures.

It was a space to reflect on the positioning of civil society at the time and emerging opportunities for renewed collaboration and impact. Insights were shared on how global trends were fostering innovation and new forms of partnership, as well as on-the-ground experiences of advocacy and inclusive digital technology that could bridge local and global efforts.

Together, the conversation explored how civil society could turn complexity into opportunity, strengthen cooperation and sustain hope as a driving force for change. The session closed by reflecting on where inspiration could be found and how it could guide collective action towards a more just and connected future.

A lightning panel session invited practical questions on how to build successful coalitions and collaborations across organisations.

We had entered an era facing overlapping, interconnected crises, including climate change, inequality and weakened democratic institutions. These multiple crises were rooted in complex systems that no single actor could address alone. At the same time, the multilateral system was under pressure: countries increasingly appeared to put national interests first, deprioritising global collaboration – at a time that practically begged for more collective efforts. The power of partnerships and coalitions could not be overemphasised in those times.

Against that backdrop, the session brought together experienced CSO practitioners to share their insights into how to build successful coalitions, aiming to change the status quo through pooling expertise, data, networks and funding, thereby enhancing the mutual efficiency and reach of partners. In this lightning panel, speakers shared with the audience some of the key building blocks that made coalition work successful.