The Spindle Series on Civil Society

Activism, artivism and beyond
A key component needed to safeguard and work towards an open and free society is keeping a close eye on the forces that impact on civic space – something that CIVICUS, the World Alliance for Citizen Participation, is constantly doing. With the first publication in this series Activism, artivism and beyond we have taken a different approach. Rather than focusing on the forces that limit or threaten civic space, the report looks at the positive side of the story – zooming in on initiatives that create breathing-space or defend the oxygen still available for civil society. By highlighting creative actions from civil society organizations (CSOs), grassroots organisations and movements alike, Activism, artivism and beyond seeks to showcase the wealth and breadth of civic action that is already out there.

Joining forces, sharing power
Today’s challenges are characterised by their complex, multifaceted nature and need concerted, multidimensional action to meet them. Motivated by the recognition that we must work together to find solutions to our common challenges, The Broker and The Spindle joined forces again to celebrate inspiring and innovative collaborations in civil society. Resulting in the second publication titled Joining forces, sharing power: civil society collaborations for the future. This report showcases the many ways in which civil society has managed to bridge gaps, overcome differences and work together in creative and transformative ways, with likely, as well as unlikely, partners. With the support of CIVICUS, we selected examples of collaborations that are particularly inspiring or innovative.

Digital Dalits, Colourful Carroças
Around the world, too many people are still excluded from some or more aspects of life. They are kept out of society because of who they are or who they love; because of what they do, have or don’t have; or because of where or how they live their lives. Civil society organisations around the world, however, are making great efforts to ensure that people are not being left behind; that everyone is included and can take part in all aspects of life without having to overcome major barriers. To celebrate these CSOs and draw inspiration from their actions, our latest collaborative publication Digital Dalits, Colourful Carroças focused on inclusion. We put the spotlight on how civil society across the world is working hard to get everyone to join in.