Thinking Democratically: A Comprehensive Approach to Countering and Preventing Shrinking Space

4.
Conclusion
While the 7 case studies vary significantly, they provide specific insight into the phenomenon of
shrinking space and its implications for action in different country contexts. More specifically, the
cases outline the different strategies for shrinking space and the nature of the phenomenon, and the
actors defending and attacking space. The following findings cut across continents and specific socioeconomic
contexts:
1. What strategies are used to shrink space?
a) Attacks on civic space,
b) Creating an uneven political playing field,
c) Undermining the rule of law and judiciary;
2. What does shrinking democratic space look like?
a) Closing space is a multifaceted and non-linear phenomenon;
b) Space is being eroded gradually and not only through clearly identifiable attacks;
c) It is a global phenomenon;
3. Who is shrinking and defending space?
a) Ruling parties are the main but not only perpetrator, with a dual role for opposition parties;
b) Civil society is the main target of attacks and the main actor defending democratic space.
1. Three strategies for closing space which underline the links between
civic space and broader political contestation
The case studies pointed to three closely interlinked strategies for closing space: shrinking civic
space, creating an uneven political playing field and undermining the rule of law.
41