Silencing Civil Society through Stigmatizing Narratives: A Conversation with Gina Romero

The growing trend of “foreign agents" laws have targeted prodemocratic civil society groups and activists around the world. As a result, hostile narratives are established that stigmatize these groups, impeding the inherent rights of freedom to assembly, expression, and speech. These narratives often lead to “foreign agents” laws by authoritarian regimes, ultimately stifling the many benefits that civic groups bring to societies. Gina Romero, the United Nations Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Peaceful Assembly and of Association, sits down with NED Vice President for Studies and Analysis Christopher Walker to discuss stigmatizing narratives that target civil society and activists, their impact, and how civic groups can respond. In this conversation, Ms. Romero highlights the key findings of her recent report on protecting the rights to freedom of peaceful assembly and association from stigmatization. For further insights on “foreign influence laws”, watch Ms. Romero’s short video on the rights to peaceful assembly and association and read the Forum’s resources on Foreign Agents Laws. You can find additional resources on the Countering Authoritarian Influence research hub and join the conversation with us on Facebook, LinkedIn, and X.