Call for Proposals: Dutch Human Rights Fund 2026 (Hungary)

Deadline: 01-Mar-2026

The Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Budapest invites civil society organizations in Hungary to apply for the Dutch Human Rights Fund 2026. Grants support initiatives that advance human rights, including LGBTIQ+ equality, freedom of expression, internet freedom, independent journalism, and women’s and girls’ rights, for projects running one to three years.

Overview

The Dutch Human Rights Fund (DHRF) provides funding to civil society organizations in Hungary to develop initiatives that achieve tangible improvements in human rights. The fund emphasizes fostering meaningful change, supporting human rights defenders, and aligning with Dutch human rights policy priorities.

Funding Objectives

The fund supports projects that:

• Protect and empower human rights defenders

• Promote equal rights for LGBTIQ+ persons

• Ensure freedom of expression and internet freedom

• Support independent journalism

• Advance equal rights for women and girls
  Projects should aim for sustainable results that have a measurable impact on communities and human rights standards.

Eligibility Criteria

Eligible applicants must:

• Be a civil society organization operating in Hungary

• Have successfully completed any previous Embassy-funded projects, unless the new project targets a different group or objective

• Demonstrate capacity to implement projects with clear goals and sustainable outcomes

• Comply with project timelines: start in 2026, run at least one year, and conclude within three years

Project and Application Requirements

• Include a detailed budget in Excel or Word table format

• Define concise project goals

• Demonstrate sustainable expected results

• Use the standard application form only, along with the relevant budget or short explanatory addendums

• Do not submit additional attachments such as letters of recommendation or background documents

• Preference is given to projects that include support for human rights defenders or promotion of equal rights for LGBTIQ+ persons

How to Apply

1. Confirm Eligibility: Ensure your organization operates in Hungary and meets all prior funding or operational requirements.

2. Define Project Focus: Align your initiative with DHRF priorities, such as LGBTIQ+ rights, human rights defenders, freedom of expression, or women’s rights.

3. Prepare Proposal: Include project objectives, expected results, and timeline.

4. Develop Budget: Submit a detailed budget in Excel or Word table format.

5. Submit Application: Only the standard application form and relevant budget/addendum will be considered.

6. Evaluation: Applications are assessed based on alignment with fund priorities, feasibility, impact, and sustainability.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Including additional attachments beyond the standard form and budget

• Failing to meet project start and end date requirements

• Applying with projects that repeat previously funded objectives without targeting new groups

• Submitting unclear or incomplete project goals or budgets

• Ignoring fund priorities such as LGBTIQ+ rights or human rights defenders

FAQ: Dutch Human Rights Fund

1. Who can apply? Civil society organizations operating in Hungary.
2. What is the project duration? Minimum one year, maximum three years, starting in 2026.
3. Can previously funded organizations apply? Yes, but new projects must target a different group or objective if the prior project was completed.
4. What documents are required? Standard application form and detailed budget (Excel or Word table). No additional attachments accepted.
5. Which projects are prioritized? Initiatives supporting human rights defenders or promoting equal rights for LGBTIQ+ persons.
6. Can multiple projects be submitted? Only one project per organization will typically be considered unless targeting a separate group or objective.
7. How is impact evaluated? Based on alignment with Dutch human rights priorities, feasibility, sustainability, and expected community impact.

Why It Matters

The Dutch Human Rights Fund enables civil society organizations in Hungary to strengthen human rights protections, amplify marginalized voices, and support systemic change. By funding projects that protect defenders, promote equality, and uphold freedom of expression, the initiative contributes to sustainable social and human rights improvements across communities.

Conclusion

The 2026 DHRF call offers a significant opportunity for civil society organizations to advance human rights, empower vulnerable groups, and create lasting impact in Hungary. By aligning projects with fund priorities and delivering feasible, sustainable initiatives, applicants can strengthen human rights advocacy and support a more inclusive, equitable, and just society.

For more information, visit Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Budapest.