Event Summary
On 16 December 2025, Paraguayan civil society organizations filed an Action of Unconstitutionality against Law No. 7363 before the Supreme Court. The so-called “Anti-NGO Law” or “Garrote Law” was enacted in November 2024 and eventually put into force on 23 October 2025 through Decree No. 4806. The action was filed by the Human Rights Coordinator of Paraguay (CODEHUPY), representing 33 CSOs working across the territory and with communities. It considers that the regulation affects freedom of association, freedom of expression, political participation and the principle of legality. It violates fundamental rights that are guaranteed in the National Constitution as well as international obligations for the protection of civic space. Additionally, it undermines solidarity initiatives, educational, cultural, agricultural and social support projects throughout the country.
The appeal questions the excessive control of the State over the formation, operation and financing of civil society organizations, established by the new legal instrument, which introduces an excess of political control and enables a regime of permanent suspicion, together with the application of disproportionate sanctions, deemed incompatible with a democratic, rights-based system.
The CSOs have requested a review of the constitutionality of the law and the immediate suspension of its effects, until the merits of the matter are decided upon. While waiting for the Constitutional Chamber of the Court to rule on the admission of the Action, the CSOs have clarified that their objective is to defend democracy, the rights of civil society organizations as well as of all citizens. The Action of Unconstitutionality highlights the adverse environment for CSOs and the decision of the Supreme Court will determine whether this disabling legal framework will be maintained or whether the state will move towards more robust protection of fundamental freedoms.
No ocurrió anteriormente, como evento colectivo de OSC en defensa jurídica de derechos constitucionales que las afectan de manera directa.