Deadline: 25-May-2026
The European Commission has launched a €2.78 million funding call to strengthen human rights, democracy, civil society, and climate action in Sri Lanka and the Maldives. The programme supports NGOs working on digital rights, governance, green recovery, and climate resilience under two thematic lots. Grants range from €1 million and cover 70%–95% of project costs, depending on eligibility and justification.
Overview of the Programme
The European Commission has introduced this funding opportunity under the European Commission to support civil society organisations in Sri Lanka and the Maldives.
The programme aims to strengthen:
- Human rights and democratic governance
- Civil society participation in policy-making
- Climate resilience and green recovery
- Digital rights and responsible technology use
It is designed to reinforce civil society as an independent actor in governance and sustainable development.
Programme Structure: Two Thematic Lots
Lot 1: Human Rights and Democracy Programme (2025–2027)
Focus areas:
- Protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms
- Promotion of democracy and rule of law
- Safeguarding rights in digital transformation
- Addressing risks and opportunities of emerging technologies
- Supporting human-centric digital governance
Key aim:
To ensure digitalisation and green recovery processes respect human rights and democratic values.
Lot 2: Civil Society Programme (2025–2027)
Focus areas:
- Strengthening civil society organisations (CSOs)
- Climate action and environmental protection
- Green recovery and sustainable development
- Policy dialogue and governance participation
- Adaptation and mitigation of climate change impacts
Key aim:
To build strong, independent CSOs that actively contribute to governance and climate resilience.
Country-Level Priorities
Sri Lanka
- Inclusive and peaceful society
- Green recovery
- Strengthening governance systems
Maldives
- Green recovery
- Rule of law and good governance
- Security and institutional strengthening
The programme ensures alignment with the Multiannual Indicative Programme (2021–2027) and avoids duplication with other EU initiatives.
Funding Details
- Total budget: €2,784,500
- Lot 1 allocation: €1,260,000
- Lot 2 allocation: €1,524,500
Grant Size
- Minimum per project: €1,000,000
- EU funding coverage: 70% to 95% of eligible costs
- Full funding may be considered if justified
Who Can Apply?
Eligible Applicants
- Non-profit legal entities
- Non-governmental organisations (NGOs)
- Civil society organisations (CSOs)
Lot 1 Eligibility
- Open to organisations worldwide
- Partnerships with Sri Lankan or Maldivian CSOs encouraged
Lot 2 Eligibility
- Applicants must be based in:
- European Union (EU)
- Sri Lanka
- Maldives
- Or NDICI-Global Europe eligible countries
Additional Requirement
- Applicants must directly manage the project implementation
Key Focus Areas Across Both Lots
1. Human Rights & Democracy
- Rule of law
- Civic freedoms
- Democratic participation
- Rights-based governance
2. Digitalisation & Technology
- Digital rights protection
- Ethical use of emerging technologies
- Human-centric digital transformation
3. Climate Action & Green Recovery
- Low-carbon development
- Climate adaptation and mitigation
- Environmental protection
4. Civil Society Strengthening
- Capacity building for CSOs
- Policy engagement
- Governance participation
- Development cooperation
How It Works / Application Process
Step 1: Identify Relevant Lot
- Lot 1: Human rights, democracy, digital rights
- Lot 2: Civil society and climate action
Step 2: Build Partnerships
- Especially encouraged with local CSOs in Sri Lanka and Maldives
Step 3: Prepare Proposal
Include:
- Clear objectives aligned with thematic priorities
- Strong governance and implementation plan
- Climate or rights-based impact strategy
Step 4: Budget Planning
- Ensure at least 70%–95% eligible cost coverage compliance
- Minimum project size €1,000,000
Step 5: Submit Application
- Follow European Commission call guidelines
Step 6: Evaluation
Assessed based on:
- Relevance to programme priorities
- Impact on human rights and governance
- Climate and sustainability outcomes
- CSO capacity and partnership strength
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting projects below €1 million threshold
- Weak alignment with human rights or climate priorities
- Lack of local partnerships in Sri Lanka or Maldives
- Overemphasis on operations instead of impact
- Non-compliance with EU eligibility rules
Why This Programme Matters
This funding call is important because it:
- Strengthens democracy and human rights in vulnerable regions
- Supports civil society as a governance partner
- Promotes climate resilience and sustainable development
- Encourages responsible digital transformation
- Builds long-term institutional capacity in Sri Lanka and Maldives
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the main purpose of this EU funding call?
To strengthen human rights, democracy, civil society, and climate resilience in Sri Lanka and the Maldives.
2. How much funding is available?
A total of €2.78 million across both thematic lots.
3. What is the minimum grant size?
€1 million per project.
4. Who can apply?
NGOs, CSOs, and non-profit organisations.
5. What are the two lots?
Lot 1 focuses on human rights and democracy; Lot 2 focuses on civil society and climate action.
6. What is the funding coverage rate?
Between 70% and 95% of eligible costs.
7. Are partnerships required?
Not mandatory, but strongly encouraged, especially with local organisations.
Conclusion
The European Commission’s funding call for Sri Lanka and the Maldives provides a significant opportunity to strengthen human rights, democratic governance, and climate resilience. By supporting civil society organisations and promoting inclusive development, the programme aims to build stronger institutions, protect fundamental freedoms, and advance sustainable development pathways in the region.
For more information, visit European Commission (EC).