Pro bono legal assistance has taken center stage in the newly released EU Strategy for Civil Society, which positions it as a core driver of a resilient, thriving civic sector across Europe. The strategy underscores the essential role civil society plays in democratic life, and even name-checks PILnet as a leading example of the pro bono networks that help CSOs stay strong, safe, and effective.
The strategy affirms that pro bono legal support goes beyond just advising on compliance questions and giving CSOs more space to carry out key activities, noting that lawyers can further contribute to those activities directly through advocacy research, capacity building, and strategic litigation, adding, “Pro bono lawyers can also support CSOs in addressing threats and attacks, such as smear campaigns and SLAPPs, including by representing CSOs in court and providing legal advice.”
In a major boost to the pro bono ecosystem, the European Commission pledged in the strategy to “work to connect communities of pro bono lawyers with CSOs across sectors and in need of support.”
The document provides a strong foundation for bolstering pro bono partnerships between legal professionals and civil society organizations. In doing so, it creates a favorable environment in which pro bono networks and clearinghouses like PILnet can amplify our impact.
“This recognition is very encouraging for civil society in Europe,” said PILnet Co-Executive Director Andrej Nosko. “The Commission’s strategy recognizes that CSOs cannot fulfil their missions alone. Rather, they need strong alliances, supportive policies, and access to expertise, including legal expertise. We look forward to working together with EU institutions and partners across the continent to make sure civil society organizations can access the legal support they need to thrive.”
At PILnet, we welcome this important step, and view it moreover as a promising sign that the EU can become a global beacon for civil society, which faces mounting challenges around the world.