Civil Society Responses to Foreign Agent-Related Legislation and the Shrinking of Civic Space

This K4DD Rapid Evidence Review collates evidence related to foreign agent related legislation.

The review notes that since the mid-2000s, a wide range of states have enacted or proposed new laws to enhance controls over domestic non-governmental organisations (NGOs). States have often accused these NGOs of promoting agendas pushed by foreign actors and representing foreign interests.

The consequences of foreign funding laws and restrictions can be significant. Most directly, they limit the capacity of NGOs to operate and fulfil their missions, as many such organisations in lower-income or authoritarian states, particularly NGOs engaged in human rights and advocacy, rely on Western funding.