How do we forward as a community?

Our survey and the discussion in our meeting demonstrate that the consequences of the new political reality for our sector are stark. Jobs have been lost, programmes providing essential services to those in extreme need have been halted, and the collection and dissemination of data and knowledge is under threat. The challenges we will face to continue to provide a voice for conflict-affected people and environments will increase. This is why documenting exactly what is happening as thoroughly as possible is of paramount concern. 

As we move forward, it will also be important to reflect critically on the work that we were engaged in. Prior to this period of change, despite the manifest need for our work, support was not always directed towards those in greatest need. Financial support in particular was often not offered within realistic timescales given the nature of work, and bidding processes were often unduly complex. Income diversification for NGOs is often also a major challenge. 

To overcome all of this we will need to double down on working collaboratively across borders and disciplines. Solidarity and mutual aid is more important now than ever before, as is building new relationships and strengthening existing ones. Our StopGap represents an initial effort to respond, building online structures and networks to address the evolving needs of the sector. 

Finally, we must acknowledge that what is a new reality for many in our sector has long been part of the daily existence of those in conflict-affected and colonised states, who are constantly forced to protect civil society space and overcome highly oppressive structures with greatly limited funds. How can we learn from each other and in the process build genuine solidarity?

Huge thanks to Erika Weinthal, Carl Bruch, Shweta Sanjeev and Mara Pusic from EnPAx for co-organising the event and questionnaire, and to all who responded and attended for their valuable input.