UN Celebrates 80 Years, but Civil Society Faces Ongoing Barriers

As the United Nations (UN) marks 80 years, civil society continues to encounter significant obstacles to participation. During United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) High-Level Week, barriers continue to include the suspension of ECOSOC-accredited non-governmental organisations (NGO) badges, the lack of a permanent civil society engagement platform, and reprisals by States against those engaging with UN processes. These restrictions risk silencing communities most affected by global crises and undermine the UN’s commitment to inclusivity and accountability.

CIVICUS stresses that reforms are essential to ensure civil society can safely and consistently contribute to policymaking, hold states accountable, and amplify voices often excluded from decision-making. UN80 presents a critical opportunity to reaffirm that “We the Peoples” is not merely symbolic language but the foundation of the UN’s purpose.

CIVICUS is calling for:

• Unfettered access for United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC)-accredited NGOs during High-Level Week
• A permanent International Civil Society Day at the General Assembly
• Full implementation of the UN’s guidance note on the protection and promotion of civic space

CIVICUS will be represented by Secretary General Mandeep Singh Tiwana and UN Advisor Jesselina Rana at the UNGA in New York City this September at the following events.

For more information please reach out to Jesselina Rana, UN Advisor at