In times when civil society is increasingly targeted with disinformation, smear campaigns and institutional exclusion, standing firm is no longer enough — organisations need strategic communication skills, confidence under pressure, and the ability to turn attacks into opportunities for influence. This was the central aim of Resilient Voices, a focused initiative implemented by ProInfo in partnership with the Citizen Participation Forum (FGU), with financial support from the European Citizen Action Service (ECAS).
Resilient Voices was designed to help selected Bulgarian civil society organisations not just survive in a hostile media and political environment, but to thrive, communicate clearly, and defend their mission in real conditions where public legitimacy is constantly challenged.
A Just‑In‑Time Response to Rising Hostility
In recent years, organisations advocating for democratic values, human rights, environmental protection, and social inclusion have faced organised attacks meant to undermine their credibility. These ranged from false narratives to targeted smear tactics — all working to erode trust and limit civic space. Resilient Voices responded with a comprehensive support framework tailored to this reality.
Rather than focusing on generic capacity building, the project centred on real‑world challenges: how to communicate under pressure, how to respond to hostile narratives without defensiveness, and how to represent citizen interests in public debates effectively.
How the Project Worked
1The initiative began with an open conversation about the real pressures civil society organisations face today — from smear campaigns and distorted narratives to institutional marginalisation. Building on this, each organisation received tailored support to strengthen its public voice, prepare for moments of visibility, and develop internal readiness to respond under pressure.
The final mock debate brought everything together. In front of a live audience, participants faced realistic provocation and tension — and showed they could stay focused, persuasive, and resilient when it mattered most.
Real Impact, Real Learning
The results went beyond training completion or certificates. Through Resilient Voices:
- CSOs developed stronger public communication strategies fit for hostile environments.
- Internal protocols and spokesperson readiness were improved.
- Participants gained confidence in high‑pressure public speaking and advocacy.
- The initiative built bridges between civil society and broader audiences, increasing visibility and legitimacy.
Importantly, this shift wasn’t about helping organisations only to preserve their own space — it was about strengthening their capacity to speak up for the citizens and rights they represent, even when under attack.
From Theory to Practice — and Beyond
Resilient Voices didn’t just deliver activities; it delivered lasting tools, strategies, and confidence that participating organisations can use beyond the project. The simulated debate and structured mentoring provided a bridge between learning and doing, helping CSOs navigate hostile communication environments with clarity and resilience.
Working closely with ECAS and building on past initiatives such as #YouImpact and Positive Citizen Narratives for Europe, Resilient Voices marked a shift from traditional capacity building toward practical, applied support that strengthens civic space and enhances democratic participation.
Why It Matters
In a media and policy landscape where civil society voices can be drowned out by hostility and manipulation, resilience is not just the ability to endure — it’s the ability to communicate strategically, influence public conversations, and stay true to mission under pressure.
That’s the legacy Resilient Voices leaves behind.
proinfobg.com 