The "Roadmap for EU Engagement with Civil Society in Syria," developed through extensive research including literature review, key informant interviews, and focus group discussions, presents a comprehensive strategy for the European Union's future collaboration with Syrian civil society organizations (CSOs). This roadmap aims to deeply understand the Syrian civil society ecosystem, emphasizing its historic evolution, especially post-2011, and its interactions with donors, authorities, and the community at large.

The report highlights several critical findings:

1. Historical Context and Evolution: Syrian civil society has evolved significantly, particularly since 2011, with new forms of civic engagement emerging in response to violence and unrest. Moving beyond these challenges is essential for building a unified civil society.

2. Legitimacy and Legal Framework: The legitimacy of CSOs is derived from their work within communities, often contested by de facto powers. Although legal frameworks are restrictive, CSOs have adapted by focusing on community relevance, navigating around regulations.

3. Registration and Funding Challenges: Small CSOs face difficulties in registration, leading to either funding inaccessibility or increased scrutiny. Reliance on larger NGOs or intermediaries has provided some protection but also hindered growth.

4. Donor Engagement and Understanding: The relationship between most Syrian CSOs and donors is intermediated, resulting in poor understanding of donor motives and priorities. There is a need for CSOs to have a clearer comprehension of EU and other donors' processes.

5. Navigating Restrictions: Both EU and other donors' vetting procedures are seen as additional restrictions, influencing the CSOs' ability to work effectively in their communities.

6. Complex Relationships with De Facto Powers: CSOs must navigate complex relationships with various authorities, which define their operational territories and scope.

The report also delves into the role of civil society in community relations, highlighting discrepancies in community perception and the need for more inclusive, bottom-up approaches. It emphasizes the importance of transitioning from short-term, emergency-focused interventions to long-term strategies.

Networking and collaboration among CSOs are crucial yet challenging, with issues like competition and differing perspectives across geographic areas. The report suggests strategies to foster better partnerships and understanding among CSOs.

The report outlines four priority areas for EU engagement:

1. Representation of Civil Society: Developing a participatory civic space that leverages community initiatives and ensures equitable resource access.

2. Deliberative Democracy: Supporting common visions for Syrian civil society and its role in Syria's future, including promoting peace, justice, and democratic outcomes.

3. Public Wellbeing: Transitioning from humanitarian aid to sustainable development, focusing on empowering CSOs to work with communities for long-term recovery.

4. Self Constitution: Strengthening the inherent capacities of CSOs for sustainable development, equitable partnerships, and effective knowledge exchange.

These priorities emphasize the need for a holistic approach, integrating gender mainstreaming and focusing on sustainable development, community empowerment, and democratic engagement.

The report concludes with a postscript reflecting on the February 6th, 2023 earthquake, underscoring the changed conditions for Syrian civil society and the heightened importance of efficient, community-focused aid. This disaster highlights the necessity of adapting the roadmap's recommendations to the evolving context, ensuring that aid is utilized effectively to support community resilience and recovery, and engaging civil society as a key player in these processes.