Strengthening Civil Society Engagement on Regulatory Frameworks and Civic Space Across Asia and Africa

In 2026, Community World Service Asia (CWSA) expanded its geographical engagement to Africa for the first time, with a regional workshop held in Uganda, alongside four workshops conducted across Asia in Bangladesh, Thailand, the Philippines, and Nepal. Bringing together 150 participants (84 men and 66 women) from 113 civil society organisations. The workshops focused on strengthening of understanding on FATF-related frameworks, regulatory challenges, and the growing pressures on civic spaces.

Through interactive discussions, case studies, and peer learning, participants explored practical approaches to navigating regulatory requirements, advocating for an enabling environment for civil societies. These workshops provided a valuable platform for organisations from diverse contexts to exchange experiences, discuss common challenges, and identify approaches to adopt regulatory frameworks and civic space challenges.

By encouraging regional dialogue and collaboration, and by extending this dialogue to Africa through the Uganda workshop, CWSA helped participants deepen their understanding of emerging regulatory trends, strengthen advocacy efforts, and build connections with civil society actors working to protect and promote civic space across Asia and Africa.