The current social, economic, geopolitical and environmental challenges that governments are facing present a critical juncture for democracies around the world. In many OECD Members, public confidence in government institutions has been decreasing, with this trend being accompanied by declining voter turnout, the rising prevalence of mis- and disinformation, growing political polarisation and larger groups dissociating themselves from traditional democratic processes. Within this context, the OECD launched the Building Trust and Reinforcing Democracy Initiative (RDI) in 2021 with the dual goals of strengthening democratic governance and protecting them from existing and emerging threats. Through this initiative, OECD members explicitly recognise the need to protect and promote civic space as part of enhancing participation, representation and openness in public life. Civic space is viewed as a cornerstone of democratic governance and a crucial means for citizens to meaningfully engage in shaping their societies.