On Sept. 23 the White House announced a Presidential Memorandum directing U.S. agencies involved in international activities to take concrete steps to protect and encourage civil society.

A Fact Sheet identifies key initiatives, including:

  • Expanding the Legal Enabling Environment for Civil Society
  • Working with the Open Government Partnership to expand civic participation and make government more accountable
  • Consulting with civil society

  • Enhancing efforts with governments and multi-lateral organizations like the Financial Action Task Force to protect civil society while combatting terrorist activity

  • Creating six regional civil society centers to help connect and support civil society globally.

president obama speaking in front of press in the white house press room