Strengthening civil society through strategic alliances
In Berlin, over 20 civil society actors and several Germany-based diaspora organisations came together in July to share strategies, tools, and experiences. The result: stronger networks, concrete action plans, and a renewed sense of collective purpose.
© GIZ/Sandra Tamkova
Civil society is facing growing restrictions in many countries: from legal pressure and political exclusion, to shrinking spaces for participation. How can organisations still act effectively and remain visible? From 14-18 July 2025, the international dialogue “Coalitions for Impact” brought together civil society representatives from ten countries and diaspora organisations from Germany for a peer-driven exchange in Berlin. The event was hosted by the GIZ global programme “Shaping development-oriented migration” (MEG).
The one-week event explored strategies to safeguard civic space and drive impact in migration-related contexts. It was structured around three thematic tracks: Connecting local experiences with global migration debates; moving from analysis to action; and strengthening communication, data, and coalition work. The central question being: How can civil society remain relevant, responsive, and resilient in complex political environments?
Participants explored new tools to strengthen advocacy. This includes better use of data, sharper messaging and strategic storytelling. Speaking at the event, So Young Chang from Migration Data in Motion emphasised the significance of data.
Data is not just numbers, but a resource for accountability and protection. When platforms are co-created and locally anchored, data can help expose injustice and protect vulnerable groups.Mpho Mathelemuse from Civic Data Lab demonstrated how visual storytelling can shift public narratives. Mpho’s session encouraged participants to create stories that reflect people’s agency rather than repeating deficit-based frames of migration. Jan Christian Sahl from welobby offered a practical look into the practice of lobbying. His key message: “It’s not just about access. It’s about clarity, timing, and consistency.”
Throughout the week, participants learned from one another through interactive workshops, real-time coaching, and open exchange formats. One key outcome was the development of Strategic Action Plans tailored to each organisation’s context, turning shared reflection into practical roadmaps for the months ahead.
“This dialogue reminded us how much strength lies in connection. When we listen, share, and build together, even complex challenges feel more manageable.” – Saurav Koirala, MEG Nepal
To mark the end of the week, participants joined a networking dinner with representatives from foundations, civil society organisations, and diaspora organisations based in Germany. The evening offered space for informal dialogue, cross-sector exchange, and the beginning of new partnerships, reinforcing the message that lasting impact requires shared vision and mutual trust.
