Deadline: 2-Jan-2026
This opportunity seeks to support projects operating at local, regional or global levels that align with international standards and contribute directly to the fund’s core objectives. All proposed initiatives must address at least one of the key outputs defined in the call, which focus on enhancing protection mechanisms, ensuring access to justice, and reducing impunity for crimes against journalists.
The fund is directed towards organisations that work closely with journalists, lawyers, and specialised non-profit entities, who are considered the direct and final beneficiaries of the programme. Its purpose is to empower those on the front lines of defending press freedom and ensuring that journalists can operate safely and independently. The initiative supports practical and strategic projects that help enforce legal protections, improve judicial responses, and strengthen frameworks that safeguard freedom of expression.
A total of USD 800,000 has been allocated for this round of funding. Grants will range from a minimum of USD 15,000 to a maximum of USD 50,000, depending on the scope, scale and proven capacity of the applying entity. Funding will be distributed among the highest-scoring proposals following evaluation, ensuring that resources are directed towards partners with the ability to deliver effective, sustainable results. Applicants are expected to request funding amounts that align with their administrative and financial management capabilities.
The call is open exclusively to not-for-profit organisations, including non-governmental organisations, academic institutions, foundations, professional associations and intergovernmental bodies. To be eligible, applicants must have been legally registered and active for at least two years and be able to demonstrate operational experience relevant to media defence, human rights, or legal advocacy. Each applicant may submit only one proposal under this call.
Eligible entities must demonstrate sound financial health, reliable internal control systems, and a stable funding base to sustain their operations throughout the project’s duration. They should also have the management structure and human resources necessary to oversee and support the implementation of the project in their target areas. Applicants will be assessed based on their legal documentation, partner identification forms, and recent audited financial statements.
Additionally, candidate organisations must prove that they have the capacity to manage the proposed funds responsibly and to participate actively in planning, monitoring and evaluation processes. Only organisations that can guarantee transparency, accountability and effective delivery will be considered. Applicants must not appear on any United Nations sanctions or ineligibility lists.
Through this call, the Global Media Defence Fund reaffirms its commitment to protecting journalists and upholding press freedom around the world. By supporting organisations with strong operational and ethical standards, the fund aims to build sustainable systems that defend the right to report, promote justice for media workers under threat, and strengthen democratic values through the protection of free and independent journalism.
For more information, visit United Nations Global Marketplace.