CFPs: Promotion of Human Rights and Strengthening of CSOs in Morocco

The European Commission has launched a €5.8 million funding call in Morocco to strengthen civil society, human rights, and democratic governance. The programme supports NGOs and civil society organizations working on gender equality, child protection, civic space, and inclusive policymaking. Grants range from €350,000 to €760,000 across three thematic funding lots.

What is this European Commission Funding Programme?

This initiative is a civil society support programme designed to strengthen democratic values, human rights protection, and inclusive governance.

It is part of the broader external action framework of the European Commission under the European Neighbourhood policy, supporting long-term democratic resilience and civic engagement.

Key Objectives of the Programme

The funding call aims to:

• Strengthen protection and promotion of human rights
• Combat violence against women and improve child protection systems
• Enhance civil society participation in governance and policymaking
• Promote gender equality, youth inclusion, and social justice
• Support climate action and environmental sustainability
• Expand civic space and democratic dialogue
• Empower marginalized and underserved communities

Funding Structure and Budget

The total indicative budget is €5.8 million, divided into three funding lots:

Lot 1: Human Rights Protection

• Budget: €2,000,000
• Grants: €350,000 – €650,000
• Focus areas:
  • Human rights defenders
  • Fundamental freedoms
  • Anti-corruption initiatives
  • Rights of detainees

Lot 2: Gender-Based Violence & Child Protection

• Budget: €1,500,000
• Grants: €350,000 – €750,000
• Focus areas:
  • Prevention of gender-based violence
  • Protection systems for children
  • Survivor support services

Lot 3: Civil Society, Governance & Development

• Budget: €2,300,000
• Grants: €700,000 – €760,000
• Focus areas:
  • Civic participation in policymaking
  • Advocacy and policy reform
  • Climate action and sustainability
  • Institutional capacity building

Who is Eligible?

Eligible applicants include:

• Civil society organizations (CSOs)
• NGOs and non-profit organizations
• Networks and coalitions of civil society actors

Applicants must:

• Operate in or work with stakeholders in Morocco
• Demonstrate capacity for governance, rights-based, or development work
• Have strong institutional and operational structures
• Ensure compliance with EU funding and co-financing requirements

Co-Financing Requirements

• EU funding covers 51% to 95% of eligible costs
• Applicants must secure co-financing from other sources
• Partnerships are strongly encouraged for sustainability

Cross-Cutting Priorities

All projects must integrate:

• Gender equality with measurable outcomes
• Environmental and climate sustainability
• Social inclusion and equity
• Strong child protection safeguards (where applicable)
• Strengthening of local civil society networks

Why This Programme Matters

This funding call plays a key role in:

• Strengthening democratic institutions
• Expanding civic participation and freedom of expression
• Supporting vulnerable and marginalized populations
• Improving accountability and governance systems
• Advancing human rights protections in civil society ecosystems

It reinforces long-term democratic resilience and inclusive development in the region.

How to Apply: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Select the Right Funding Lot
Choose between human rights, gender/child protection, or governance focus areas.

Step 2: Build a Strong Consortium
Partner with other civil society actors if needed to strengthen impact.

Step 3: Develop Project Proposal
Clearly define objectives, activities, and expected outcomes.

Step 4: Ensure Co-Financing
Secure additional funding beyond EU contribution.

Step 5: Submit Application
Apply through the official European Commission funding portal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Weak alignment with human rights or governance priorities
• No clear co-financing strategy
• Ignoring gender or inclusion requirements
• Lack of measurable impact indicators
• Poorly structured partnerships

Tips for a Strong Proposal

• Align closely with EU rights-based development approach
• Include strong gender equality and inclusion frameworks
• Demonstrate local impact and sustainability
• Build credible civil society partnerships
• Provide clear monitoring and evaluation plans

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who can apply for this funding?
   Civil society organizations, NGOs, and nonprofit networks working in Morocco.
2. What is the total funding available?
   €5.8 million across three thematic lots.
3. What is the grant size range?
   Between €350,000 and €760,000 depending on the lot.
4. Is co-financing required?
   Yes, applicants must secure additional funding beyond EU support.
5. What are the main focus areas?
   Human rights, gender equality, child protection, governance, and civic participation.
6. Can organizations apply in partnerships?
   Yes, consortium applications are strongly encouraged.
7. What is the key goal of this programme?
   To strengthen civil society, democracy, and human rights in Morocco.

Conclusion

The European Commission civil society funding programme in Morocco offers a major opportunity for organizations working on human rights, governance, and social inclusion. With significant financial support and a strong rights-based approach, it enables civil society actors to drive meaningful democratic and social change.

Organizations with strong partnerships, clear impact strategies, and a focus on inclusion and human rights will be best positioned to succeed.