Navigating Policy Spaces: Civil Society and Policy Influence in Indonesia and the Philippines

This report examines the different ways civil society organizations in Indonesia and the Philippines influence public policy. Drawing on original surveys, interviews, and focus group discussions, it explores the “policy spaces” where civil society and government interact. These include both the formal, legally mandated, participatory governance structures and the informal, relationship-based channels that are often just as powerful. The paper, funded by the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, reveals that while both countries have vibrant civil societies and strong traditions of participatory governance, civil society organizations often struggle to turn participation into meaningful policy influence, with many organizations relying on informal avenues, personal relationships, networks, or coalitions over formal channels.

The report shows how sustained, trust-based engagement can lead to genuine policy outcomes, even in challenging contexts. For development partners and policymakers, the report offers practical insights on how to strengthen civil society’s influence in policymaking: by supporting civil society organizations to think and work politically, building inclusive and accountable formal spaces, and fostering broad alliances that preserve civil society’s independence. The study calls for a more realistic and politically informed understanding of participation, one that recognizes both the opportunities and limits of policy dialogue and reaffirms civil society’s essential role in advancing democratic resilience and responsive governance in Southeast Asia.