The Observatory recognizes civil society from the region as a strategic partner in the fight against organized crime, armed violence and extremism: it is essential to the credibility, relevance and impact of this work.

The Observatory strengthens regional civil society by sharing key information and providing support and training, working closely with local actors to amplify their voice and impact.

Civil society actors play a critical role by:

• providing ground-level insights into criminal economies and dynamics of violence;

• documenting illicit activities and their impacts on communities, governance and security;

• producing independent analysis that complements institutional and academic research.