In 2024, an in-depth analysis of the legal and political landscapes was made, documenting the main threats CSOs in Bulgaria, Greece, Italy and Cyprus face. The study combined desk research and empirical qualitative data collection, adopting a multi-method approach to assess the state of civic space in Southern Europe.

In particular, each country report was developed through an initial desk research phase, analysing national legislation, policy frameworks, case law, and relevant reports from governmental and nongovernmental sources. This phase mapped out the legal and institutional conditions affecting CSOs and identified the key barriers -legal, political, financial, and societal- that constrain their operations.

To complement this part, a qualitative data collection phase was conducted, involving semi-structured interviews and focus groups with key stakeholders, including CSO representatives, activists, and experts. These discussions provided insights into the lived experiences of civil society actors, revealing specific challenges such as legal constraints, administrative burdens, financial precarity, and digital threats.

Additionally, the data highlighted best practices and adaptive strategies developed by CSOs to navigate restrictive environments. The findings from the national reports were synthesised into this Comparative Report, enabling a cross-country analysis of recurring trends and country-specific variations.