Impact of Rule of Law Erosion on Civil Society Resilience in Hungary

• In Event: Democracy Under Strain: Civil Society and Public Attitudes in Hungary and the Balkans

Abstract

The effects of democratic backsliding throughout Eastern Europe have beleaguered rule of law norms across all EU member states. Consequently, legislation passed directly targeting the work of civil society organizations (CSOs), such as Hungary’s “Stop Soros” laws , present serious challenges to democracies. Hungary’s government has further introduced a series of measures that criminalize assistance to undocumented migrants and impose strict reporting requirements on organizations receiving funding. In this study I explore how these laws and restrictions on foreign funding have impacted the ability of CSOs to operate effectively within Hungary. Using surveys with CSO leaders and domestic experts combined with existing reports via international as well as domestic reporting agencies, this research seeks to assess the effects of these changes on CSO’s funding, their advocacy efforts and overall sustainability. Preliminary findings indicate that many CSOs are under resource constraints and increased legal risks, however remain resilient by adopting alternative approaches such as digital advocacy and grassroots fundraising and support. With a focus on specific legislation, this research contributes to larger conversations on the rule of law, civil society resilience and challenges of operating in illiberal regimes.

Author

• Huso Hasanovic, Christopher Newport U