Introduction to Civil Society in West Asia

27/02/2009 In July 2008, Hivos and the University of Amsterdam initiated the Knowledge Programme Civil Society in West Asia (Syria and Iran).The core component of the collaboration centres around creating interaction between researchers and practitioners through theoretical and practical research aims at developing, disseminating, integrating and applying knowledge on civic engagement in West Asia (Syria and Iran).

Current Status Civil Society in Syria and Iran

In both countries, civil society faces many challenges and obstacles. Civil Society Actors (CSAs) are faced with restrictive and arbitrary legal provisions and political oppression. This not only poses several dilemmas for CSAs, but also to international organisations that support them. As a result, civic activists have few means to work and are under constant threat of persecution and harassment. The same applies to independent journalism and weblogging (citizens journalism).

Objectives

27/02/2009 The three specific objectives of this Knowledge Programme are: 1.To acquire insights about factors that drive civic engagement; 2.To explore and identify the interplay between activities of CSAs; and 3.To explore and identify the impact and effect of external involvement on various types of CSAs and their activities.

Research Questions

27/02/2009 The Civil Society in West Asia Knowledge Programme focuses on two main questions: 1.How can CSAs contribute to strengthening of civic initiatives in Syria and Iran? 2.To what extent can international actors contribute to civic activities and initiatives in Syria and Iran?