As part of the Monitoring Freedom of Association Project supported by the European Union, TUSEV conducted a working visit to Brussels from April 22-24 with members of the Lawyers Network and the Public-Civil Society Working Group. During our visit, we held meetings with various civil society organizations and international umbrella organizations operating in the fields of human rights and philanthropy, as well as with units responsible for neighborhood and enlargement negotiations at the European Commission and representatives of the European Economic and Social Committee. Discussions focused on exchanging information about regulations affecting civil society in Türkiye and Europe, exploring potential collaboration opportunities, and discussing human rights monitoring and protection, effective utilization of international human rights mechanisms, capacity-building for NGOs, and national-level partnerships. Meetings with organizations in the philanthropy sector provided insights into the role of philanthropy in establishing a pluralistic, fair, and resilient society that places people and the environment at its core, innovative approaches in philanthropy, and efforts to overcome barriers hindering enabling environments for philanthropy. Discussions with directorates of the European Commission evaluated conditions affecting the civil society sector in Europe and Türkiye, comparing necessary reforms in legislation and practices directly impacting civil society activities.
