Fostering Regional Democracy Through Civic Organisations: Comparing EU Mechanisms in Europe and Central America

This article compares the effects of the mechanisms of the European Union (EU) on the promotion of regional civic organisations, especially funding opportunities, in two regional settings (Central America and Europe). It is argued that the EU is exporting a specific model of relationships between regional institutions and civic organisations, giving priority to the promotion of regional integration, democracy and social inclusion. This article shows that EU funds have significantly contributed to the shaping of the civil society landscape in both regions, especially enhancing the participation of excluded groups in the policy process at the regional level. It is also important to determine if the EU is acting as an internal or external promoter of civic organisations. Even if the economic, social and cultural context is not neglected, the differential impact is primarily related to different types of European requirements.