Bridging divides: How civil society can combat harmful polarisation

At a time when our societies face growing polarisation and trust in democratic institutions is waning, civil society must rise to the challenge. Polarisation, in itself, is not always negative; democratic debate thrives on different viewpoints. However, when polarisation leads to hostility, disinformation, and division, it threatens the very foundations of our democracies.

During this year’s Civil Society Week, we have seen remarkable examples of initiatives that fight harmful polarisation. The EESC Civil Society Prize has highlighted organisations working on media literacy, countering disinformation, and fostering intergenerational dialogue. These are the types of projects that must be supported if we want to build resilient, cohesive societies.

Across Europe, we are witnessing increasing societal fragmentation. The challenges are numerous: economic inequalities, social exclusion, digital misinformation, and political extremism. The recent rise of populist movements across Europe, shrinking media pluralism, and declining trust in institutions illustrate how polarisation fuels discontent. These trends weaken democratic structures and erode social cohesion. In such times, civil society is not just a participant in the democratic process—it is a guardian of its resilience.

Civil society organisations have long been at the forefront of defending democratic values. They act as mediators, bringing diverse voices to the table, countering misinformation, and fostering informed public debates. They provide a platform for those who feel unheard, advocating for inclusive policies that bridge divides rather than deepen them. Through civic engagement, fact-based discussions, and initiatives that promote tolerance, civil society actively combats the forces of division.

The EESC firmly believes that strengthening participation and dialogue is the only way forward. We see this in our work every day—our members, representing employers, trade unions, and NGOs, engage in robust debates, yet always with the goal of finding common ground. Our strength lies in consensus, and this is the model that must be expanded across Europe.

Civil society must be empowered to play its full role in addressing polarisation. This means ensuring their access to funding, protecting their ability to operate freely, and fostering an environment where their contributions to democratic life are recognised and valued. Participatory mechanisms, whether through citizen consultations, grassroots initiatives, or deliberative democracy tools, must be reinforced to ensure people feel included in decision-making.

The future of Europe depends on its citizens feeling represented, engaged, and heard. Civil society is not an accessory to democracy—it is its backbone. As we navigate an era of division, we must equip it with the tools, recognition, and space it needs to continue safeguarding our democratic values. By fostering dialogue, promoting social inclusion, and countering extremism, civil society can be the force that turns polarisation from a source of conflict into a driver of constructive debate and social progress.

Let us work together to ensure that division does not define our future. Instead, let’s build a Europe where diversity of opinion strengthens our unity, where engagement rebuilds trust, and where civil society leads the way in bridging divides.

Oliver Röpke

EESC President