Active involvement of civil society in the process of European integration is essential to the Eastern Partnership (EaP) member states, according to Counterpart International’s Vice President of Programs of the Civil Society and Government Strengthening Practice Area.

“The Eastern Partnership set the civil societies of EaP member states at challenge. Activation of the civil society’s role must be monitored by the state to facilitate support to civic organizations,” Alex Sardar said during Yerevan-hosted European Movement International (EMI) congress.

Commenting on civil society’s role in some EaP member states, specifically Belarus and Azerbaijan, Mr. Sardar characterized Azerbaijan as lacking in public sensitivity. “Activities of social organizations are strictly controlled both in Belarus and Azerbaijan,” he concluded.

On Oct 20-21, Yerevan is hosting European Movement International congress on “Fostering Civil Society’s role for further European integration in the Eastern Partnership countries”.