Together, the signatories, representing more than 50 million citizens, highlight how civil society strengthens democracy, promotes public participation and supports the EU’s commitment to living within the limits of nature. Public participation in EU decision-making is not only a democratic principle, but a legal right, which is enshrined in the Treaty on European Union and the Aarhus Convention.
For decades, civil society organizations have been at the heart of EU decision-making, providing expertise, promoting dialogue and finding solutions to some of the biggest challenges facing people and the planet. Unlike well-funded actors such as foreign governments, business associations and multinational corporations, civil society organizations need EU support to operate equitably.
The LIFE program is the cornerstone of this support, enabling environmental NGOs to collaborate with stakeholders across Europe to combat biodiversity loss, climate change and the energy transition. These partnerships help deliver science-based solutions, ensure citizens’ voices are heard and support the EU’s commitment to a fair and green future.
The work of civil society is based on transparency, responsibility and careful management of EU funds. It ensures that European democracy remains vibrant and inclusive. Undermining this support would undermine the EU’s core democratic values and risk silencing the voices calling for urgent action to protect our planet.