Pro Bono to Reform the EU
A major international law firm offered legal research on a pro bono publico basis to empower Civil Society Europe with the right instruments to drive EU reform recommendations.
Legal Research to Empower Civil Society Europe
Pro Publico recently facilitated the collaboration between Civil Society Europe (CSE) and one of the most renewed law firms in the world to help strengthen civil society’s role in EU governance. With their expert pro bono assistance, CSE received crucial legal insights on the legal and policy implementation of the Civil Society State of the Union recommendations and their implications on the revision of EU Treaties to foster a more democratic, inclusive and rights-based European Union.
Why EU Reform Matters
Following the commitment by the new Commission to reinforce the rule of law and democracy in the EU, the conclusions of the Conference on the Future of Europe, and as European leaders debate a potential convention to review and reform the EU Treaties in the context of EU enlargement, civil society organisations see a historic opportunity to amplify citizen voices in EU governance. By working to shape this potential reform, civil society hopes to ensure a resilient democratic system that values diversity, independence and structured civil dialogue.
CSE: Advocating for a Stronger European Civil Society
Civil Society Europe, representing 22 platforms and networks of European civil society organisations (CSOs), is a primary force for change in this area. CSE envisions a Europe where independent and diverse CSOs play a foundational role in upholding democratic values, fundamental rights and inclusive dialogue. To achieve this, CSE published its own Civil Society State of the Union report. This report, backed by the contributions of 43 CSOs, offers a comprehensive vision for a democratic and just EU but requires expert legal analysis to translate key recommendations into actionable EU Treaties amendments.
The Need for Pro Bono Legal Expertise
CSE recognized that implementing the recommendations from its report would require a thorough analysis to determine which of its proposed changes would necessitate amendments to the EU Treaties. While CSE began this process in-house, they needed specialised knowledge in EU law to navigate the complexities of treaties reform which Pro Publico facilitated by introducing them to the amazing pro bono team at the aforementioned law firm.
Top-Tier Legal Expertise for Civil Society
The law firm in question is known for its extensive expertise and global reputation, with a strong record of supporting civil society causes, bringing sophisticated legal acumen to complex issues. Their commitment to pro bono work, especially for causes shaping a more inclusive EU, speaks to the firm’s dedication to positive social impact. For this matter the firm put together a dedicated team composed of attorneys from different European offices.
The Pro Bono Collaboration
Over the course of their engagement, the team of lawyers delved into CSE’s report, systematically analysing each recommendation to assess its implications for EU Treaties. The team provided a detailed review, identifying which proposed reforms would require Treaties amendments and which could proceed within the current legal framework. This rigorous examination empowered CSE to build an actionable strategy and strengthened their advocacy efforts.
The Outcome and Impact
Thanks to the pro bono lawyers’ contribution, CSE now possesses a solid legal foundation to advocate effectively for EU reforms. The analysis provided clear direction on advancing their recommendations within the framework of an EU convention for Treaties change. CSE’s director Carlotta Besozzi, praised the lawyers’ exceptional work noting, “They did an outstanding job strongly commended by our members.” This contribution not only enhanced CSE’s capacity to engage in EU-level dialogue but also equipped them with the expertise to advocate persuasively for policy shifts that reflect the interests and values of civil society.
Link to the full report: CIVIL SOCIETY STATE OF THE UNION
Contributing Civil Society Organisations:
ALDA – European Association for Local Democracy
British in Europe – The Coalition for UK Citizens in Europe
Caritas Europa
Centre fro European Volunteering
COFACE – Families Europe
CONCORD – European NGO Confederation fro Relief and Development
Culture Action Europe
European Anti Poverty Network
European Center for Not-for-Profit Law
ECAS (European Citizen Action Service)
European Civic Forum
EDDA (European Digital Development Alliance)
EDRi (European Digital Rights)
European Disability Forum
EEB (European Environmental Bureau)
EFF (European Future Forum)
ENAR (European Network Against Racism)
ECOLISE (European Network for Community-Led Initiatives on Climate and Sustainability)
European Partnership for Democracy
ESU (European Students’ Union)
European Youth Forum
Eurogroup for Animals
EuroMed Rights
Europa Festival
Europa Nostra (60 Years)
FEANTSA (European Federation of National Organisations Working with the Homeless)
FOND (Federation of Romanian NGOs for Development)
German NGO Forum on Environment and Development
Lifelong Learning Platform
Michael Culture Association
Networking for Inclusive Information Society (NETWORK NGO)
Philea (Philanthropy Europe Association)
Social Platform
Solidar
Solidar Foundation
Transparency International EU
Transport & Environment
Union of European Federalists
VolontEurope
Young European Federalists
Consulted Civil Society Organizations:
Democracy International
European Alternatives
Citizens Take Over Europe
If you’re a civil society organisation seeking strategic pro bono support, consider reaching out to Pro Publico to explore partnership opportunities. Our network of top-tier law firms and consultants is ready to help bring your vision to life. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your cause.
Thanks to @Carlotta Besozzi @CSE Civil Society Europe @ProPublico @European Commission @European Parliament
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