EU, Sweden, and Germany Allocate €44M to Support Civil Society in Ukraine

Date: January 2, 2024

In a significant commitment to Ukraine, the European Union (EU), alongside its member states Sweden and Germany, has announced an allocation of €44 million aimed at bolstering civil society organizations (CSOs) within the country. This initiative is part of a broader "Team Europe" strategy to enhance support for Ukraine amid ongoing challenges.

According to a press release from the EU Delegation to Ukraine, the funding will encompass various support programs designed to strengthen the country's civil society. A key component of this package includes a Call for Proposals scheduled for May 2025, which will distribute €14 million targeting CSOs. This proposal will specifically allocate €5 million to initiatives focusing on gender leadership and conflict resolution.

In addition to the EU's funding, Germany and Sweden are contributing an extra €17 million to civil society efforts. The EU is also fast-tracking another €13 million to provide immediate support, which includes direct funding for projects that address critical issues such as gender equality, accountability for war crimes, access to information, and the strengthening of democratic processes.

This renewed commitment underscores the EU's long-term strategy of fortifying Ukrainian civil society, enhancing the nation’s resilience against Russian aggression, and ensuring that humanitarian assistance and integration initiatives effectively reach those in need.

Since the onset of Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022, the EU has provided over €150 million in funding to support various civil society initiatives. The assistance has been vital in responding to urgent needs, including emergency food supplies, shelter, medical aid, and documentation of war crimes. In 2022 alone, EU funding for civil society responses was increased significantly, rising from €20 million to €60 million to address the pressing demands arising from the conflict.

The recent financial package reflects the EU's commitment to sustaining and enhancing civil society efforts in Ukraine, empowering communities as they navigate the ongoing crisis.