Norway supports the rule of law, democracy and human rights in Europe through the Civil Society Fund of the Financial Mechanism European Economic Area(XM-EEA/IEEA Grants), with a budget of 300 million euros, of which 14.3 million will be received by Greece.

According to a statement issued by the Norwegian embassy in Greece, “Norway confirms its continued commitment to supporting democracy, human rights and the rule of law in Europe, with the newly established Fund with a budget of over 300 million euros». Among them the Norwegian government finance 97% with the rest being sponsored by Iceland and Liechtenstein – which will be allocated to 15 European Union countries. Greece will receive financing amounting to 14.3 million euro.

“Civil society is necessary to protect and promote democracy. Through the new EEA Grants Fund for Civil Society, Norway is making a significant contribution to ensuring a more dynamic, resilient and democratic Europe, at a time when Civil Society organizations are under increased pressure. No country can shield democracy and protect civil society alone, and Norway is committed to working with the European Union to this end“, notes the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Norway, Espen Bart Eide.

Simultaneously with the announcement of the news Civil Society Fundthe initiation of the process for the search for the organizations that will manage this grant in the beneficiary countries is announced.

The Financial Mechanism Office of the EEA I EEA Grants begins in Athens the organization of a national consultation with the interested parties for the new Civil Society Fund. In addition, information sessions are organized for potential candidates for the role of Fund Manager. “The goal of these consultations is to include all interested parties in an active process of exchanging views on the role of Civil Society and the needs in a national context, in order to adapt the programs to the relevant needs and requirements of each country.”

In Athens, the consultation process will take place on December 12, 2024 and will be open to all interested parties.

It is noted that the Financial Mechanism of the European Economic Area (EEA | EEA Grants) aims to reduce economic and social inequalities and to strengthen bilateral relations with 15 EU member states. In 2024, 30 years have passed since the signing of the EEA Agreement in 1994. Since then, Greece has systematically received funding through EEA Grants. For the new financial period 2021-2028, the donor countries will make available to Greece 159.3 million. euro.