How EU Democracy Assistance to Civil Society Can Help Secure Democratic Gains

This policy report examines how and when EU support enables civil society actors to foster tangible democratic progress during political transitions. Amid shifting geopolitical dynamics—including U.S. disengagement and Russian assertiveness—the EU is rapidly revising its security strategy, notably through a restructuring of DG NEAR. This shift coincides with a broader reorientation of democracy assistance, now less focused on systemic political change and more on targeted support for civic spaces, social entrepreneurship, environmental protection, and inclusion. Despite this defensive turn, EU assistance has played a crucial role in enabling small-scale democratic gains in nine neighboring countries, especially in pre-transition phases or during openings for democratic reform. Drawing from twelve case studies, the report identifies forms of effective EU support and highlights successful examples in Tunisia and Armenia. It concludes with both general and country-specific policy recommendations, particularly addressing the ongoing protest movement in Serbia and its potential for democratization.