Empowering Civic Voices, Strengthening Digital Democracy
Through inclusive funding, skills, and solidarity, the Digital Democracy Initiative in South Asia—coordinated by Accountability Lab—supports grassroots actors, amplifies marginalized voices, and builds resilient, accountable democracies across the region.
About The Program
Accountability Lab, in partnership with CIVICUS under the Digital Democracy Initiative (DDI), serves as the Resourcing Mechanisms Host Partner for South Asia. This program is a pioneering regional effort designed to strengthen civic space, support democratic innovation, and empower diverse voices across all eight South Asian countries.
The program responds to the growing challenges of shrinking civic space, digital authoritarianism, disinformation, and barriers faced by marginalized groups in engaging with governance processes. By resourcing and equipping grassroots civil society actors, the initiative seeks to create a more enabling environment where citizens can participate freely, advocate effectively, and hold institutions accountable.
Grounded in principles of inclusivity, transparency, and collaboration, the program emphasizes participatory approaches that bring together community-based organizations, youth, women, minority groups, and digital activists. It is designed not only to provide resources but also to foster solidarity, knowledge-sharing, and resilience among civic actors working in often restrictive and high-risk environments.
As Host Partner, Accountability Lab plays a central role in coordinating implementation, ensuring rigorous financial and programmatic management, and creating spaces for regional collaboration and learning. By connecting local initiatives with regional and global networks, the program amplifies voices from South Asia and contributes to the broader vision of the Digital Democracy Initiative – building resilient, digitally enabled democracies that safeguard rights and strengthen accountability in the digital age.
South Asia Diversity Fund (SADF)
The South Asia Diversity Fund (SADF) under the Digital Democracy Initiative provides transparent, flexible financial support to grassroots civil society actors advancing democracy, accountability, and civic participation. By prioritizing marginalized groups—women, youth, gender minorities, and rural communities—it ensures diverse voices drive democratic renewal in South Asia. Through inclusive funding and regional collaboration, SADF strengthens civic innovation and builds resilient, accountable societies.
South Asia Democracy Solidarity Block (SADSB)
The South Asia Democracy Solidarity Block (SADSB) provides non-financial support to civil society actors through mentorship, training, digital safety tools, and peer-to-peer collaboration. By fostering solidarity and regional networks, it equips grassroots organizations and marginalized voices to counter disinformation, resist shrinking civic space, and strengthen democratic engagement. SADSB builds resilience, collective strength, and sustainable pathways for inclusive digital democracy in South Asia.