A new fund totalling over EUR 300 million will support organisations promoting the rule of law, democracy, and human rights across Europe. The newly established EEA Civil Society Fund will assist civil society organisations in 15 EU countries.
“Civil society organisations provide an invaluable contribution to democratic society. It is in Norway’s interests to facilitate the efforts of organisations working to strengthen the rule of law, democracy and human rights across Europe,” said Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide.
Norway’s contribution makes up approximately 97% of the total allocation for this fund. It will prioritise initiatives related to human rights, anti-discrimination, democracy, gender equality, environmental protection, climate action, and the green transition, among other areas.
“Civil society organisations have come under increasing pressure in Europe. Together with Iceland and Liechtenstein, Norway will provide support to organisations working to promote human rights, the rule of law and democracy in Europe. It is to Norway’s advantage to ensure that Europe remains a continent with multiple organisations working to safeguard and strengthen fundamental values,” added Minister Eide.
The EEA Civil Society Fund is part of the EEA and Norway Grants scheme, through which Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein provide funding to reduce social and economic disparities in Europe. In the current funding period, 10% of the EEA and Norway Grants is allocated to this fund, which succeeded a similar initiative from 2014–2021.
Launched today, the fund will have independent operators in each beneficiary state to manage daily operations, with grants available until 2031. The aim is to enhance cooperation among Norway and the EU’s 15 least prosperous states, which include Bulgaria, Croatia, and Greece. Norway contributes about 97% of the EUR 3.268 billion provided.
Additionally, EUR 183 million is set aside to mitigate the impacts of Russia’s war on Ukraine. The priority areas for funding are green transition, democracy and human rights, and social inclusion.
