For the latest annual CIVICUS report on the state of civil society, Ambika Satkunanathan (Neelan Tiruchelvam Trust) argues that, in the context of diminishing resources for civil society, the role of indigenous grant-makers is becoming increasingly relevant, particularly where supporting work on human rights and social justice is concerned:

Although government donor agencies have been criticised for using foreign aid as a means of furthering their foreign policy agendas, something that can potentially result in donor-driven programmes, their importance as a source of funding for many groups working on human rights and social justice issues cannot be denied. However, international development is being re-shaped by global economic changes, the shifting priorities of governments and new and emerging philanthropic foundations that show an interest in supporting civil society organisations (CSOs). Continue reading (PDF).

These 27 guest contributions commissioned by CIVICUS for the State of Civil Society Report 2015 focus on civil society resourcing. The guest inputs discuss a range of funding issues encountered by civil society organisations and activists, including official development assistance and other forms of support from governments, philanthropy, corporate social responsibility and non-financial resources.

Ambika Satkunanathan is Chairperson of Neelan Tiruchelvam Trust.