Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values Programme
The CERV Programme funds research and activities to promote rights, equality, democracy, and EU values, focusing on democracy, inclusion, gender equality, citizen engagement, and combating violence.
Funder: European Commission
Due Dates: Varies by specific call; see portal for current and upcoming deadlines
Funding Amounts: Total programme budget: €1.56 billion (2021–2027); individual grant sizes vary by call and strand
Summary: Supports civil society and stakeholders to promote rights, equality, democracy, and EU values across Member States and associated countries.
Key Information: Funding is organized under four strands; eligibility and deadlines depend on each call.
Description
The Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values Programme (CERV) is the EU’s flagship funding initiative to protect and promote rights and values as enshrined in the EU Treaties and the Charter of Fundamental Rights. CERV supports civil society organizations and other stakeholders at local, regional, national, and transnational levels to foster open, rights-based, democratic, equal, and inclusive societies built on the rule of law. The programme is structured around four main strands:
- Union Values: Protecting and promoting EU values such as democracy, rule of law, and human rights.
- Equality, Rights, and Gender Equality: Advancing equality, non-discrimination, gender equality, and rights of children and persons with disabilities.
- Citizens’ Engagement and Participation: Enhancing citizens’ engagement in democratic life, exchanges between citizens, and awareness of common European history.
- Daphne: Combating all forms of violence, including gender-based violence, and supporting victims.
CERV is part of the Justice, Rights and Values Fund, alongside the Justice Programme, and is managed by the European Commission.
