The CIVICUS Civil Society Index (CSI) is a participatory needs assessment and action planning tool for civil society around the world, with the aim of creating a knowledge base and momentum for civil society strengthening initiatives. The CSI is initiated and implemented by, and for, civil society organizations at the country level, and actively involves, and disseminates its findings, to a broad range of stakeholders including: government, donors, academics and the public at large.

CSI’s past phase (2003-2006) covered 53 countries worldwide, including Turkey.* In 2009, a new phase was launched with a revised methodology covering 56 country partners across the globe. TUSEV was re-selected as the National Coordinating Organization for the CSI implementation in Turkey for the 2009 phase.

*The CIVICUS Civil Society Index (CSI) was implemented in Turkey by TUSEV between January 2004- December 2005. Detailed information about this past phase is available under "CSI Turkey 2005".

The CSI Field Study was carried out with over 150 civil society stakeholders from urban and rural locations in every geographical region in Turkey. The consultation meetings took place in Istanbul, Ankara, Denizli, Adana, Trabzon, Van and Diyarbakir between January 9 and May 7, 2009.

The CSI Civil Society Forum is a participatory ‘strategic action planning exercise’ for civil society stakeholders. Using CSI findings as a starting point, it provides an opportunity for dialogue and collective learning on the character, impact, environment and aspirations of civil society. Bringing together over 150 stakeholders from all regions and diverse backgrounds, the Forum took place over a day in Kadir Has University, Istanbul in 19 June 2009. 

The CSI Advisory Committee consists of 17 prominent individuals who represent diverse civil society and other stakeholder groups in Turkey. The Committee met for the first time in Istanbul in late 2008 to give feedback and make decisions on research activities. Committee Members were also asked to make an assessment of civil society in Turkey based on their perceptions. The Advisory Committee members met again in 26 May 2009 to validate and interpret the reserach findings. A list of the Committee members is available here.