The Impact of the Crisis on Civil Society Organizations in the EU – Risks and Opportunities

Perhaps the financial and economic crisis, which has now emerged as a fundamental crisis of the EU’s role in European society, can be seen as an opportunity to rejuvenate civil society to different, and potentially more productive and co-operative roles in decision-making processes. As is raised in this study, we could even start to rethink the meaning of democratic participation in policymaking by civil society. We show there is a potential for civil society in all of its different colours to facilitate engagement of European citizens for better, more constructive, engaged and fulfilling lives.