Leading Together participants engaged in a ‘world cafe’ group work exercise on how to lead in times of crisis
Presently, ICSO leaders are facing increased pressures and complexities. The sector is not just facing challenges; rather we are undergoing a fundamental transformation in the very role of civil society. This is a moment that demands not just adaptation, but reinvention, collective action, and bold innovation. When facing multiple, simultaneous crises, it’s advisable to step back in order to see the bigger picture, understand interdependencies, and set priorities. This two day in-person event in Berlin, provided some time to take a breath, look up, and discuss collectively challenges, creative ideas, and innovations to navigate and work through the crisis we are facing – so to ensure we stay fixed on working towards our mandates, and ultimately the communities and people we want to support.
We all know that we are living in uncertain times. There is a global shrinking of civic space, with growing attacks on the legitimacy of CSOs. Traditional models of aid funding are fragmenting and reducing prompting a re-examination of our fundamental purpose and sustainability. We face increasing digital repression, alongside the manipulation of public narratives by anti-rights actors and others through the vehicle of disinformation and algorithm-driven media. These, and several other attacks on the sector are undermining trust and eroding the very foundations of an established civil society. For those of us leading CSOs, we also know the multiple practical implications that our own organisations are facing. Assessing, analysing, and then agreeing solutions and new approaches – are ever-present challenges, with answers we do not know.
One key insight that resonated with all participants was the importance of collaboration and standing together. This came through many of the sessions we held. There is an impetuous need for strategic collaboration and the building of cross-sectoral alliances, fostering deeper solidarity across various movements, and forming new alliances across intersecting issues. Connecting diverse actors – from grassroots initiatives to global institutions – was highlighted as one of civil society’s most important contributions, especially during times of instability. Working collaboratively and sharing in collective efforts and innovative approaches will ensure that CSOs can amplify their impact in the world.
Leading together participants in a collaborative ice-breaker activity
The challenges we are facing are very real, but civil society still holds immense power if it acts collectively and proactively. We should invest in alliances, in solidarity, and rethink how we communicate as civil society – critically adapting to meet an ever-changing world. It is clear that remaining effective and fit for purpose will require more than just adaptation – it will require reinvention. The poet Edgar Guest was quoted during Leading Together from his poem ‘It couldn’t be done’.
‘Somebody said that it couldn’t be done,
But he with a chuckle replied
That “maybe it couldn’t,” but he would be one
Who wouldn’t say so till he’d tried’.
This is our moment to try – to strive towards a future where civil society continues to be a catalyst for social justice, human rights, accountability, transparency and participation.
Leading Together group photo of participants on day 2