Victims’ voices belong at the heart of EU democracy.
Victim Support Europe has submitted its response to the European Commission’s consultation on the upcoming EU Civil Society Strategy, calling for strong, enforceable measures that protect and empower victim support organisations (VSOs) across the Union.
VSOs are not just service providers—they are essential civil society actors, defending rights, restoring dignity, and strengthening the Rule of Law. Yet across the EU, they face shrinking civic space, funding instability, and political pushback—especially when they advocate for the most vulnerable.
Our message is clear:
-Protect evidence-based policy analysis, recommendations and engaging advocacy as a core, legitimate function for safeguarding victims’ rights;
-Guarantee sustainable, multi-annual funding
-Embed VSOs in policymaking and practical support to victims
-Support cross-border collaboration
-Affirm that no victim—and no voice—is left behind
We urge the EU to move beyond symbolic support and deliver a Strategy that truly safeguards democracy—by recognising and resourcing those who defend it every day.
