The enabling environment for civil society in Botswana is shaped by a combination of constitutional protections, legal frameworks, political practices, and socio-economic conditions. The Constitution guarantees fundamental freedoms of expression, association, and assembly, providing an important foundation for civic engagement. Civil society organisations (CSOs) operate within a generally open civic and digital space, with access to information, platforms for public discourse, and opportunities to contribute to national development and policy processes.
At the same time, the environment presents notable challenges. Legal and administrative frameworks, gaps in meaningful consultation, and resource constraints affect the extent to which civil society can fully exercise its role. Between December 2025 and June 2026, Botswana’s civic space remained generally open but became more challenging for CSOs. Nationwide consultations on constitutional reform expanded public participation following CSO advocacy, while legislative developments, including the draft Media Bill, Public Service Bill, and review of the Societies (Amendment) Act, generated debate on civic freedoms. Relations between government and CSOs remained mixed, with continued consultation alongside limited high-level engagement. The withdrawal of government funding for BOCONGO and declining donor support heightened financial pressures, underscoring the need to protect civic freedoms, strengthen government–CSO dialogue, and promote sustainable financing.
