A conversation on strengthening civil society in the Dominican Republic during the 2024 International Civil Society Congress

In November, the National Center for the Promotion of Non-Profit Associations (CASFL) of the Ministry of Economy, Planning and Development in Dominican Republic hosted the 2024 International Civil Society Congress. Held in Santo Domingo, the two-day event brought together a diverse range of voices — from development practitioners and civil society organizations to government officials and other key stakeholders, under the theme, "Civil Society Organizations and Their Role in Strengthening Democracy."

Joining this year’s conference was Cécile Saborio, Chief of Party for USAID's Civil Society Strengthening Activity in the Dominican Republic, implemented under CSM STAND. Saborio participated in a panel discussion titled "Civil Society Organizations in Latin America and the Caribbean: Progress, Challenges, and Opportunities," alongside other notable international experts including Olga Caballero from Alma Cívica (Paraguay), Juan Peña from the Pontificia Universidad Católica Madre y Maestra (PUCMM), and Paulina Corominas, Head of Civil Society Relations at the Organization of American States (OAS).

"This congress offered a platform to exchange experiences on how CSOs are fundamental to democratic development," said Saborío. "Through CSM STAND's work in the Dominican Republic, we're witnessing how strengthening civil society organizations directly contributes to democratic governance and citizen participation, fostering more robust democratic institutions."

During the second day of the congress, the Civil Society Strengthening Activity team hosted an interactive networking station where they engaged with over 30 representatives from local civil society organizations, international agencies, and event panelists. The team showcased grant opportunities and provided information about the Activity's objectives through digital and printed materials, including access to their grant portal and the "Work with USAID" platform, generating significant interest particularly among organizations working with vulnerable populations across the country.

Overall, the congress served as an important platform for dialogue on strengthening inclusive, equitable, and cohesive societies across the region. Further, it was an opportunity to engage on advancing citizen participation, gender parity, transparency, and accountability, with special attention to disability inclusion to drive social change in Latin America.