The enabling environment for civil society in Malawi remains moderately restricted, marked by gradual legal reform efforts but persistent operational, financial, and political constraints. Despite progressive engagement through mechanisms such as the NGO Policy review, decentralisation of NGO coordination structures, and collaboration under the Open Government Partnership (OGP) process, civic space continues to face pressure from state interference, public distrust, and resource scarcity. Prior to and during the Malawi General Elections in September 2025, the civic environment experienced heightened tension around freedoms of expression, association, and assembly. Nonetheless, opportunities exist to strengthen cooperation between government and civil society through transparent policy dialogue, stronger legal safeguards, and improved access to funding.
