CSE Unit

Introduction

The Civil Society Enablement Unit (CSEU) was established in 2018 as a strategic response aimed at supporting and strengthening Syrian civil society actors both inside and outside Syria, particularly during critical phases of political and social transformation. Following the fall of the Asad’s regime in December 2024, Syria is facing a pivotal transitional stage that requires strengthening the role of civil society as a key partner in peacebuilding and sustainable development.

The CSE Unit stands as one of the most prominent actors in this field, working to support civil society organizations (CSOs) and local initiatives through integrated programs focused on capacity strengthening, funding, community mobilization, and political influence.
This document outlines the Unit’s vision, methodology, and operational priorities in the new context, with a particular emphasis on the role of youth and women in the democratic transition process.

Vision

A constructive society living in dignity.

Mission

To strengthen the role of Syrian civil society in leading an innovative civic movement that contributes to building a cohesive and effective society. This involves reconstructing the social fabric on the foundations of citizenship and the rule of law, achieving sustainable and inclusive development, and promoting peaceful coexistence while mitigating conflicts. The mission is realized through the implementation of creative programs that focus on enhancing active participation and fostering a culture of equity.

Strategic Objectives

The Civil Society Enablement Unit (CSEU) has outlined four strategic objectives for 2025-27:

Support civil society actors:

Mobilize resources to help civil society actors build sustainable capacity, design accountable interventions, address vulnerabilities, and create opportunities.
Focus on supporting CSOs, refugee-led organizations (RLOs), initiatives, and individual activists in Syria, neighboring countries, and the diaspora.

Promote an enabling civic landscape:

– Eliminate barriers to civic and democratic engagement.
– Harness disruptive solutions and technologies.
– Advocate for human rights-based practices.
– Encourage greener civic activities and mindsets.
– Promote dialogue, advocacy, networking, and innovation in the civic ecosystem.

Foster the role and activism of youth and women:

– Empower youth and women to drive positive change and lead in civic spaces.
– Ensure gender-sensitive approaches in programming, including gender markers, impact assessments, and prioritizing women’s perspectives.
– Promote inclusion and equal opportunities for participation.

Amplify civic and democratic principles among the public:

– Raise awareness of civil society’s role and practices.
– Encourage contributions to peacebuilding and redress.
– Strengthen partnerships, advocacy, and capacity-building programs to promote transparency, equality, and inclusion.