Third-Sector Organisations as Catalysts for Bridging Civil Society and Social Movements: A Strategic Framework for Cross-Sector Collaboration

Abstract

This study investigates how third-sector organisations (TSOs) facilitate cross-sector collaboration between civil society and social movements to advance systemic change. While civil society institutions often pursue incremental reform through formal channels, social movements employ disruptive tactics to demand transformative justice—creating strategic and operational tensions that hinder collective impact. The research addresses this gap by examining the mediating role of TSOs as boundary organisations that bridge these spheres. Using a quantitative design, the study surveyed 240 TSOs across West Africa, Southeast Asia, and Latin America and conducted in-depth interviews with 30 key informants from environmental justice, human rights, and public health sectors. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics, while qualitative data underwent thematic analysis. Findings reveal that TSOs with participatory governance structures report significantly higher collaboration frequency (χ² = 18.74, p < 0.001), and trust is the strongest predictor of perceived effectiveness (β = 0.42, p < 0.001). However, reliance on international donor funding negatively correlates with flexibility and responsiveness. Based on these insights, the study proposes a strategic framework centred on adaptive leadership, inclusive governance, and ethical technology use. Seven implementable recommendations are advanced: institutionalising movement representation in TSO governance, adopting flexible core funding, investing in relational trust-building, developing context-sensitive protocols, strengthening adaptive leadership capacities, leveraging community-owned digital tools, and establishing peer learning networks. The research contributes theoretically by applying boundary organisation theory to civic ecosystems and offers practical guidance for policymakers, donors, and practitioners seeking to strengthen collaborative infrastructures for social justice and sustainable development in an era of polycrisis.