What is Barely Civil Society?

A disruptive, critical and irreverent voice for philanthropy and nonprofits in the UK and beyond.

The world of the nonprofit needs disruption - of the right kind. Every two weeks(ish) Barely Civil Society offers irreverent take that goes beyond the easy answers and talking points, and gets into the deeper politics of philanthropy and charity in the UK and US. What is charity for? What kind of society do we want? And how do we help make that real?

Expect provocative questions, a satirical sense of humour, and a wide-ranging overview of current affairs, related to civil society and politics.

As of 2025, BCS has amassed many thousands of viewers, and counts many top influencers, thinkers, and decision-makers on the philanthropy scene among its readers.

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“Everyone always reads the things that Alex Evans publishes. Sign up, and his musings will land in your inbox every couple of weeks as well! This is a TREAT.”

“Love your righteous anger and bullshit-free/hilariously-delivered insights. Keep them coming please!”

  • "Frank and direct critique of bullshit in the sector is utterly crucial, and you're a very expert exponent of it. (As well as being good at highlighting good stuff, too!)"

    Jack

  • "Yes, the content is always great, but aso the quality of the writing is just so exceptional. Humour, authenticity and placed in an academic context (with deep knowledge worn lightly) is not an easy trick to pull off, let alone make look effortless."

    Julia

  • “I've been subscribing for a few months now. I'm really grateful for the time you spend writing and sharing these updates. Thank you for all you do to raise awareness of so many sector issues.”

    Sarah

  • "It's one of the most refreshingly honest and constructively furious things I read regularly at the moment."

    Ahmed

  • "“Can somebody please make this man CEO of the Charity Commission with immediate effect, so I can sleep properly again.”

    Kath

  • "Every single week I get so much from Alex's words. This edition (like all of them) was a total banger."

    Matt