Through its research and advocacy functions, KCSF works with relevant actors to create and protect the policy and legal basis, and practical opportunities for civil society to operate freely and engage in public processes. 

KCSF creates knowledge, provides expertise and advocates in design and implementation of positive legal provisions related to civil society operation and participation, and mobilizes civil society on important issues relevant to the sector, through relevant and high-quality research and publications, promotion of international best practices, active policy advocacy, and monitoring of the civic space and implementation of applicable legislation in specific areas. 

Through continuous gathering, processing and analysing of relevant evidence and data, KCSF produces on periodic basis its flagship studies of Kosovar Civil Society Index and Monitoring Matrix for Enabling Environment for Civil Society Development, monitors regularly policy implementation in core areas such as public consultation and public funding for NGOs, prepares specific policy analysis and proposals in areas such as freedom of association, civil society involvement in European Integration process, Anti Money Laundry and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML-CFT) – including financial services for civil society, Philanthropy and taxation for civil society donors, Economic Activity and taxation of NGOs, Financial Reporting for NGOs, Public Spaces, Volunteering, etc. 

KCSF research serves as the basis for proactive advocacy in core topics through both agenda-setting and reaction to policy initiatives, by taking intentional and strategic actions to influence and shape the topics and issues that need prominence in both public discourse and government’s agenda. This is done by direct contribution in working groups and other formal structures of policy-making process, public events, written comments on policy proposals of public institutions, advocacy campaigns, as well as other forms of policy advocacy. 

KCSF’s research and advocacy is built around participatory approach by active involvement of civil society and other actors during the research and mobilization of wider groups of civil society actors during advocacy.