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The pressures on civic space are changing. Our responses need to keep pace. A decade of experience points to 8 interconnected trends shaping the space for people and civil society to participate in decisions that affect their lives. More than 80% of respondents to an OHCHR survey reported a contraction of civic space. Understanding these trends is vital to help us spot emerging restrictions earlier, strengthen protection when risks escalate, build alliances that can respond collectively, and rethink how civil society is funded and supported. Our new Civic Space Brief brings together the key trends from the past 10 years and practical recommendations for action.