Focus & Rationale
Active civic engagement means that individuals participate meaningfully in the public, political, and social life of their communities. It encompasses a broad range of activities – from voting and public dialogue to grassroots activism, volunteering, and local self-organization. Civic engagement goes beyond formal processes: it includes informal, creative, and collective ways of influencing decisions, shaping policies, and addressing shared challenges.

Challenges & Relevance
A healthy democracy depends on an active and informed population. Civic engagement strengthens democratic culture, fosters a sense of community responsibility, and helps build trust between citizens and institutions. When people – especially those from marginalized backgrounds – are excluded from public life, it undermines social cohesion and democratic legitimacy. Promoting civic engagement helps ensure that everyone has the chance to participate in shaping the systems, services, and decisions that affect them. In times of democratic backsliding, polarization, or disinformation, civic involvement becomes not just a right but a necessity for safeguarding freedom and justice.

Our Approach
BRIC promotes civic engagement through education, activation, and sustained support. We organize workshops, dialogue events, and public campaigns that help individuals understand their civic rights and responsibilities. Our programs equip people with the tools to participate in public life – whether by starting a local initiative, joining a debate, or contributing to policy dialogue.
We work especially with groups that are often underrepresented in decision-making processes, including youth, migrants, and refugees. We also support civic actors in building alliances, amplifying their impact, and navigating political systems. Our aim is to cultivate a culture of participation that is inclusive, constructive, and rooted in solidarity.