Civil society is essential in protecting and promoting democracy. Recently, civil society organisations have come under increased pressure in Europe. Through the EEA Civil Society Fund, Norway is making a significant contribution to ensuring a more vibrant, resilient, and democratic Europe. No single country can safeguard democracy and protect civil society alone, and Norway is committed to working with the European Union on this. Espen Barth Eide, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Norway
Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway are deepening their commitment to strengthening civil society and defending democratic values through the new EEA Civil Society Fund. The allocation of more than €300 million will bring the support of the three Donor States to civil society to an unprecedented level. The fund will focus even more on the core mission of advancing democratic values and processes in the EU, as well as the development and sustainability of civil society organisations.
The launch of the EEA Civil Society Fund comes at a critical juncture, as many European countries are experiencing a backslide in democratic standards. Civil society, which plays a central role in defending democratic values, fostering public debate, and promoting human rights, has come under increased pressure from restrictive laws, reduced access to resources, and a hostile environment for civic participation.
The Donor States have long prioritised supporting civil society in Europe. Already from 2014 to 2021, around €215 million were dedicated to supporting thousands of European civil society organisations.
By supporting civil society, the Donor States and the EU are working together to defend democracy in Europe and uphold the principles enshrined in the EU Treaty and the Charter of Fundamental Rights.
Supporting civil society and democratic values has long been a priority for Liechtenstein. These values are not just crucial today but must be sustained into the future. Through the Civil Society Fund, we continue our commitment to safeguarding democracy and empowering civil society across Europe. Dominique Hasler, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Liechtenstein
Defending democracy through civil society
The EEA Civil Society Fund seeks to empower civil society organisations across Europe by providing targeted support to those advocating for democratic values, civic participation, and human rights.
The fund will focus on areas essential for the promotion of democracy, rule of law and human rights. These include:
• Democratic values, civic engagement, information integrity and media literacy.
• Civil society participation in democratic processes.
• Human rights, anti-discrimination, and social justice.
• Gender equality, including sexual and reproductive health and rights, and LGBTIQ+ rights.
• Climate action, environmental protection, and a just green transition.
• Organisational development and an enabling environment for civil society.
The role of civil society in defending democratic values and human rights cannot be overstated. With the Civil Society Fund, we are ensuring that civil society organisations have the resources, skills, and resilience they need to continue their essential work in a challenging environment. Thórdís Kolbrún Reykfjörd Gylfadóttir, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Iceland
A strong focus on capacity building
In addition to financial support, the EEA Civil Society Fund will prioritise organisational development, helping civil society organisations diversify their funding, engage volunteers, and operate effectively in complex environments. This comprehensive approach aims to foster a resilient and confident civil society that can advance the public interest and bring about positive change.
The fund also seeks to create opportunities for European-level collaboration, enabling organisations to share best practices and strengthen their networks across borders. Specific funding will be committed for this purpose.
Civil society is essential for reducing social and economic disparities by giving a voice to citizens and holding governments accountable. The fund will focus on strengthening civil society’s capacity to address issues such as disinformation, hate speech, and the erosion of independent media—critical issues that threaten democracy in Europe today. Ragna Fidjestøl – Managing Director of the EEA and Norway Grants
©️ Ministry of Finance of Latvia
Safeguarding fundamental rights for all citizens
Civil society organisations supported by the fund will work with diverse target groups, including women, youth, minorities, migrants, refugees, LGBTIQ+ people, and Roma communities. The fund will ensure that these groups, especially those in underserved geographic areas, are actively involved in democratic processes, focussing on advocacy, civic engagement, and policy development to amplify their voices in shaping public policy.
Cooperation between the Donor States and Beneficiary States
The EEA Civil Society Fund will also be instrumental in fostering collaboration between civil society in the Beneficiary States and entities from the Donor States. This partnership brings significant added value, as sharing expertise, resources, and innovative approaches can help civil society organisations to enhance their capacities, develop more effective strategies, and tackle shared challenges more effectively.
About the EEA and Norway Grants
The EEA and Norway Grants are the contributions of Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway towards reducing social and economic disparities in Europe. By fostering collaboration and supporting key initiatives in areas such as civil society, climate change, and social inclusion, the Donor States are helping to build a more inclusive and democratic Europe.
Total allocations of the Civil Society Fund per Beneficiary State:
For more information about the EEA and Norway Grants please click here.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Eva Honningsvåg – Head of Communication
eva.honningsvag@efta.int
+32 (0) 492 148 173