RFPs: Support to Human Rights, Democracy and Civil Society (Jordan)

Deadline: 14-Jun-2026

The European Commission has launched a restricted 2026 call for proposals to strengthen human rights, democracy, and civil society engagement in Jordan.

With a total budget of EUR 3 million, the programme supports media freedom and civil society development through two funding lots under EU thematic programmes.

Programme Overview

This funding opportunity aims to reinforce democratic values, human rights, and participatory governance in Jordan. It focuses on empowering civil society organisations (CSOs) and independent media to contribute actively to development and policy processes.

The call is funded under:

• The Human Rights and Democracy Programme (2021–2027)
• The Civil Society Organisations (CSO) Thematic Support Programme (2021–2027)

Key Objectives

Strengthening Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms

• Protect freedom of expression and media independence
• Address challenges and opportunities of digital technologies and online spaces
• Promote rights both online and offline

Supporting Civil Society Organisations (CSOs)

• Enhance CSOs’ role in good governance and development
• Build capacity for policy dialogue and advocacy
• Encourage inclusive and participatory civic engagement

Promoting Media and Democratic Participation

• Strengthen independent journalism and media ecosystems
• Foster open dialogue among civil society actors
• Support local development initiatives

Funding Structure

Total Budget

• EUR 3 million (indicative)

Lot-wise Allocation

• Lot 1 (Media & Freedom of Expression): EUR 2 million
• Lot 2 (Civil Society & Local Development): EUR 1 million

Grant Size

• Minimum: EUR 900,000
• Maximum: EUR 1,000,000

Co-Financing Requirement

• EU contribution: 60% to 95%
• Applicant contribution: 5% to 40% (from other sources)

Programme Lots Explained

Lot 1: Media and Freedom of Expression

Funded under the Human Rights and Democracy Programme, this lot supports:

• Independent media
• Freedom of speech initiatives
• Addressing digital and technological challenges in media

Lot 2: Civil Society and Local Development

Funded under the CSO Thematic Programme, this lot focuses on:

• Strengthening local CSOs
• Supporting community-driven development
• Enhancing participation in governance

Who is Eligible?

Eligible applicants must meet the following criteria:

Organisation Type

• Non-profit legal entities such as:
  • NGOs
  • Civil society organisations
  • Non-profit institutions

Geographic Eligibility

• Established in:
  • EU Member States
  • Jordan

Operational Requirements

• Must be directly responsible for project design and implementation
• Cannot act as intermediaries

Preferred Expertise

• Human rights and governance
• Media development and freedom of expression
• Civil society strengthening
• Policy engagement and advocacy

How to Apply / How It Works

Step 1: Select the Relevant Lot

• Choose between:
  • Lot 1 (Media & Human Rights)
  • Lot 2 (CSO & Local Development)

Step 2: Develop a Project Proposal

Include:

• Clear objectives aligned with EU priorities
• Defined target groups and beneficiaries
• Measurable outcomes and impact

Step 3: Budget Planning

• Request funding within EUR 900,000–1,000,000
• Ensure co-financing (5%–40%) is secured

Step 4: Demonstrate Capacity

• Show organisational experience
• Highlight past work in similar sectors

Step 5: Submit Application (Restricted Call)

• Typically involves:
  1. Concept note submission
  2. Full proposal (if shortlisted)

Why This Programme Matters

• Strengthens democratic institutions and governance
• Promotes freedom of expression and independent media
• Empowers civil society as a development partner
• Enhances citizen participation and accountability
• Supports inclusive and resilient societies in Jordan

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Choosing the wrong funding lot for your project
• Weak alignment with EU priorities and thematic focus
• Incomplete or unrealistic budget planning
• Lack of clear impact indicators
• Ignoring co-financing requirements

Tips for a Strong Application

• Align closely with human rights and democracy goals
• Provide clear, measurable outcomes
• Demonstrate local relevance in Jordan
• Include strong partnerships and stakeholder engagement
• Present a realistic and transparent budget plan

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the total budget for this call?

The total indicative budget is EUR 3 million.

2. What are the two funding lots?

• Lot 1: Media and freedom of expression
• Lot 2: Civil society and local development

3. What is the grant size range?

Applicants can request between EUR 900,000 and EUR 1,000,000.

4. Who can apply?

Non-profit organisations established in EU Member States or Jordan.

5. Is co-financing required?

Yes, applicants must cover 5% to 40% of project costs.

6. What is a restricted call?

A two-stage process involving:

• Concept note submission
• Full proposal for shortlisted applicants

7. What impact does the programme aim to achieve?

It aims to strengthen human rights, democratic participation, and civil society engagement in Jordan.

Conclusion

This European Commission call offers a significant opportunity for organisations to advance human rights, media freedom, and civil society development in Jordan. With substantial funding and a clear focus on democratic values, the programme supports impactful, large-scale initiatives that foster inclusive governance and citizen engagement.

Organisations with strong expertise in policy, advocacy, media, and civil society strengthening should consider applying to contribute to sustainable democratic development in Jordan.

For more information, visit European Commission.