The global civil society alliance CIVICUS has announced the appointment of Mandeep Tiwana as its new Secretary General, effective June 1, 2025. The appointment follows a rigorous recruitment process managed by Oxford HR in collaboration with a CIVICUS board sub-committee.
Tiwana, who first joined CIVICUS in 2008, brings to the role over 15 years of dedicated service within the organization and a rich background in grassroots human rights advocacy. Originally from Punjab, India, he began his career working with communities impacted by human rights violations and later contributed to justice access campaigns across multiple Indian states.
Known for his global perspective and deep commitment to civic freedoms, Tiwana has helped lead CIVICUS’s advocacy efforts on democracy, equity, and civic space in the face of growing repression. His appointment comes at a pivotal moment: according to CIVICUS, 70% of the world’s population now lives in countries where civic space is restricted or repressed.
“We are confident that Mandeep will navigate this moment with urgency, passion, and commitment,” said Dylan Mathews, Chair of the CIVICUS Board. “He brings the experience and vision needed to lead the alliance into a stronger and more effective future.”
CIVICUS members and civil society actors around the world have welcomed the news, many of whom have worked alongside Tiwana over the years. His leadership will be critical as CIVICUS continues to defend civic freedoms, amplify the voices of grassroots movements, and confront growing authoritarianism worldwide.
For more information, visit www.civicus.org.
