Changing the way civil society is talked about in the public sphere is by no means an easy topic. It is difficult to swallow the fact that, both around the world and in our country, authoritarian governments are trying to limit civic space and thus the struggle to change organizations, thereby encroaching on the freedom of critical voice. We remember quite a few similar examples in Bulgaria. For times when there is a strong anti-NGO campaign, it is good for the sector to be creative in its response and to find positive ways to change the perspective of public dialogue. Because such a change is needed.

That is why the Lifeline Embattled CSO Assistance Fund is creating a thematic handbook aimed at increasing the capacity of civil society organizations, giving them the necessary push to create good campaigns in response to targeted public attacks, supported in one form or another by the governing force.

The handbook is intended for activists and civil society professionals who want to explore different tactics and strategies in response to accumulating stereotypes, negative narratives and attempts to tarnish the image of socially engaged associations. The material provides a clear framework for how to think and reason with the idea of ​​changing the narrative, providing great examples. We at BCNL are extremely proud that one of the eloquent examples in question is our "Subjects of Activity" campaign. With it, we managed to achieve something really valuable, namely to contribute to the increased trust in civil society organizations by the general public - a fact reported in the national representative survey "PUBLIC ATTITUDES TOWARDS CIVIL ORGANIZATIONS", conducted in 2020. This example serves that changing the way people talk about NGOs, despite active anti-NGO campaigns, is a difficult and long process. However, if we choose the right approach, if we are patient, think and speak through positive examples, the ship will undoubtedly take a new course.

Here you can learn more about the practical guide as well as download it for free use.