The government’s commitment to rebuild its relationship with charities through its Civil Society Covenant has been marred by a ‘slow start’, delays and U-turns, a report is warning.

In its latest Civic Space annual review, NGO organisation Bond says it had welcomed the publication last July of the Covenant and Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s commitments to ensure it improves relations with the civil society to give it “a home at the heart of government”.

“However, in the months since, little progress has been made on implementation, with delays to the establishment of a joint council central to delivery, and the government seen as turning back on promises made in the Covenant to protect campaigning rights,” said Bond’s review.

It is particularly concerned about an erosion of rights to protest and the Crime and Policing Bill, which is currently passing through parliament.

Bond warns this is the third piece of primary legislation on public order and protest in the last four years and gives police more powers to restrict protest rights and new powers of arrest, as well as to control the routes and times of demonstrations.

The government’s use of terrorism laws against campaign group Palestine Action is another concern. This month judges have ruled that the government’s listing of the group as a terrorist organisation is unlawful, although ministers are appealing this decision.

The rise of populism and an increase in threats and intimidation against charities working with refugees and migrants is another concern raised in Bond’s report.

Bibusa Musukwa, Bond’s Policy and Advocacy Adviser on civic space said: “This year’s review highlights the challenging operating environment for civil society and campaigners, in a year that has seen the introduction of a Bill that would impose stricter legislation on protests, and a slow start to the Civil Society Covenant.

She added: “It’s clear that UK civic space is shrinking – with campaigners facing increasing barriers to work, and some charities forced to shutter their doors against threats of violence from the far-right.

“The UK’s global reputation as a peaceful, tolerant country with vibrant civic space has been heavily damaged. Now, the government must act urgently to halt further democratic backsliding, and counter harmful anti-migrant rhetorics that fuel violence and hate.

“Protecting the right to peaceful protest, and implementing the terms of the Civil Society Covenant to support meaningful public scrutiny are crucial steps to defend civil society and restore our international reputation."

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