[European Commission](https://commission.europa.eu/index_en)

July 31, 2025: Concept note submission deadline

€500,000 total budget; individual grants may vary; maximum financial support per third party is typically €60,000 (exceptions possible).

Supports international NGOs to strengthen civic space, human rights, and civil society engagement in Eswatini.

Restricted two-step call: concept note required first; only pre-selected applicants submit full proposals.

--- ## Description This grant aims to empower civil society organizations in Eswatini by promoting human rights, democracy, and public participation. The program is designed to reinforce the capacity of local actors to operate freely, foster dialogue between civil society and authorities, and create an enabling environment for advocacy and inclusive decision-making. Funded actions should enhance human rights, support network creation, and foster active citizenship, contributing to a more robust civic space in Eswatini. --- ## Due Dates - July 31, 2025: Concept note submission deadline (first step in a restricted two-step application process) --- ## Funding Amount - Total available budget: €500,000. - Typical maximum financial support per third party: €60,000 (this threshold can be exceeded if necessary to achieve the project objectives). - Grant duration and individual award amounts may vary depending on the proposed activities and budget. --- ## Eligibility - **Lead Applicant:** Must be an International Organisation or International Non-Governmental Organisation (INGO), defined as a voluntary, independent, non-profit organization with legal presence in at least two countries (headquarters and branch/subsidiary both count). - **Local NGOs:** Cannot be lead applicants but may participate as co-applicants or partners. - **Geographic Focus:** Actions must be implemented in Eswatini and support local civil society. - **Eligible Activities:** Projects should be results-based, clearly aligned with the objectives of promoting civic space, human rights, and active citizenship. --- ## Application Process - **Step 1:** Submit a concept note by July 31, 2025. - **Step 2:** Only pre-selected lead applicants will be invited to submit a full application. - **Guidelines and Forms:** Refer to the official [EU Funding & Tenders Portal](https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/portal/screen/opportunities/prospect-details/184353PROSPECTSEN?isExactMatch=true&status=31094501,31094502&order=DESC&pageNumber=2&pageSize=50&sortBy=startDate) for detailed guidelines, application forms, and annexes. - **Information Session:** An information session is scheduled for June 20, 2025. --- ## Additional Information - Financial support to third parties (e.g., local CSOs) is permitted within the framework, with clear criteria for selection and funding amounts to be defined in the proposal. - Ethical standards and absence of conflict of interest are required. - Consultations with relevant stakeholders (such as youth advisory boards) are encouraged in proposal development. --- ## External Links - [Official Call on EU Funding & Tenders Portal](https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/portal/screen/opportunities/prospect-details/184353PROSPECTSEN?isExactMatch=true&status=31094501,31094502&order=DESC&pageNumber=2&pageSize=50&sortBy=startDate) - [EEAS Delegation Eswatini — Call for Proposals Announcement](https://www.eeas.europa.eu/delegations/eswatini/call-proposals-supporting-civic-space-eswatini_en) - [European Commission Funder Page](https://commission.europa.eu/index_en) --- ## Contact Information | Contact | Details | |-------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------| | General Inquiries | [European Commission Contact Page](https://commission.europa.eu/about-european-commission/contact_en) | | Phone | +32 2 299 11 11 | ---

Supporting civic space in Eswatini

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