Bridging the Gap: How Civil Society and the Private Sector are Shaping the Future of Advocacy

In today's interconnected world, the line between civil society and the private sector is blurring as both groups realize the power of collaboration. A recent advocacy webinar on fostering interactions between the private sector and civil society, hosted by the Helvetas Regional Advocacy Network in partnership with the European Training Foundation and RECONOMY, spotlighted this evolving dynamic. The session focused on how these two traditionally separate sectors can effectively work together to drive policy changes and navigate a shifting advocacy landscape. Below are five key takeaways from the panel discussion. 

1. Urgency is growing for collaboration 

As issues become more complex, it’s increasingly clear that neither civil society nor the private sector can create meaningful, long-lasting change in isolation. The key to impactful advocacy lies in partnership. The discussion illustrated strategies for bridging the gap between these two sectors, highlighting their shared interests in influencing policy and building sustainable collaborations. As the global landscape becomes more interconnected, their collaboration isn’t just beneficial—it’s essential. 

2. Shared struggles in a restricted civic space 

The discussion opened by focusing on the shrinking civic space, particularly in regions like the Western Balkans and Eastern Europe. Civil society organizations and progressive businesses are finding themselves on the same side of the fence, with both facing challenges such as limited access to policymakers, a lack of transparency and excessive bureaucracy. These shared struggles make the case for greater collaboration, with both sectors advocating for increased transparency and inclusiveness in policymaking. This realization has led to the breakdown of traditional silos, with civil society and businesses increasingly aligning to address common objectives. 

3. Case studies: Advocacy in action 

Two compelling case studies demonstrated how the private sector and civil society can work together to effect real change: 

• Serbian Green Building Council: Despite being a relatively young institution, the council has successfully fostered dialogue with governmental bodies, influencing policy by integrating green building principles into new regulations. This case highlights the role private sector organizations can play in leading advocacy efforts, in collaboration with both the public sector and civil society. 
• Albanian Investment Council: By structuring an ongoing dialogue between the public and private sectors, this council has improved the investment climate in Albania. The council's success is a testament to how building trust and leveraging platforms for dialogue can foster long-term partnerships that bring about systemic change. 

4. Aligning interests for sustainable partnerships 

Successful partnerships hinge on shared objectives. In regions like the Western Balkans, where brain drain is a persistent issue, both civil society and businesses have a vested interest in improving conditions for young people. Aligning these interests fosters sustainable collaboration with all parties—government, civil society and the private sector—working toward common goals. 

5. Moving forward: From "Creating Space" to "Embracing Responsibility" 

The webinar concluded with a call to action: Advocacy must go beyond creating space and embrace shared responsibility. Civil society, the private sector and government entities all have a role to play in driving inclusive, sustainable development. This means fostering innovative alliances in key areas such as the green economy and youth employment—topics that are fast becoming priorities in the region. 

The future of advocacy: A shared responsibility 

The webinar underscored that the intersection of civil society and private sector advocacy is brimming with potential. By building trust, aligning interests and working collaboratively, both sectors can drive meaningful, lasting change. The conversation initiated by this webinar is just the beginning as both civil society and the private sector continue to navigate the complexities of modern advocacy. 

Stay connected with the Regional Advocacy Network for more insights into fostering collaboration between these critical sectors.