Deadline: 18-May-2026
The European Commission invites civil society organisations in Kosovo to apply for funding to strengthen democracy, inclusion, gender equality, and access to justice. Grants under this programme total EUR 2.5 million, divided into three lots with co-financing of 60–95%, supporting projects of 24–48 months that advance European values, social inclusion, and accountability.
The European Commission (EC) is providing targeted funding to civil society organisations (CSOs) in Kosovo to promote democracy, inclusion, gender equality, and access to justice. This programme aligns with the EU’s enlargement framework and the accession process, supporting participatory governance, accountability, and alignment with European values.
Programme Objectives
The funding supports projects that:
- Promote diversity, equality, and inclusion for vulnerable populations, including the elderly, children, persons with disabilities, LGBTIQ+ communities, and non-majority groups.
- Advance gender equality and women empowerment, addressing gender-based violence, women’s land and property rights, labour rights, sexual and reproductive health, and local leadership.
- Improve access to justice, enhancing legal awareness, legal profession access, and free legal aid services for marginalized communities.
- Encourage inter-ethnic dialogue, behavioural change, and social accountability.
- Integrate Human Rights-Based Approaches and gender equality as a cross-cutting priority.
Funding Structure
- Total Indicative Budget: EUR 2.5 million
- Funding per Lot:
- Lot 1 – Diversity, Equality & Inclusion: EUR 250,000 – 500,000
- Lot 2 – Gender Equality & Women Empowerment: EUR 250,000 – 500,000
- Lot 3 – Access to Justice: EUR 220,000 – 250,000
- EU Co-Financing: 60–95% of total eligible project costs; applicants must secure remaining funds from other sources.
Who Can Apply?
- Non-profit, legally registered organisations with at least 3 years of experience.
- Organisations must be directly responsible for project implementation.
- Location Requirements:
- Lots 1 & 2: Organisations must be established in Kosovo.
- Lot 3: Organisations may be based in EU Member States or eligible countries, but must partner with a Kosovo-based organisation if not locally established.
Project Duration
- Lots 1 & 2: 24–48 months
- Lot 3: 24–36 months
Key Priorities
- Lot 1 – Diversity, Equality & Inclusion
- Protect rights of marginalized groups
- Encourage social participation and accountability
- Promote inter-ethnic dialogue and inclusive behaviours
- Lot 2 – Gender Equality & Women Empowerment
- Tackle root causes of gender inequality
- Advance women’s rights in multiple sectors
- Address gender-based violence and promote leadership
- Lot 3 – Access to Justice
- Expand legal aid services
- Strengthen civil society advocacy
- Improve access to legal professions for disadvantaged groups
How to Apply
- Develop a Project Proposal
- Align with lot-specific objectives and EU priorities
- Include budget, timeline, and sustainability plan
- Prepare Required Documentation
- Proof of legal registration and organizational experience
- Co-financing plan and partnership agreements (if applicable)
- Submit Application via EC Portal
- Ensure compliance with eligibility and funding criteria
- Evaluation Process
- Proposals are assessed on relevance, impact, feasibility, and inclusivity
- Priority given to projects demonstrating sustainable, measurable outcomes
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting proposals outside lot objectives
- Failing to demonstrate co-financing or partnerships
- Missing legal registration or minimum experience requirements
- Ignoring gender integration and Human Rights-Based Approach
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the total funding available?
EUR 2.5 million across three lots.
2. Who is eligible to apply?
Non-profit, legally registered CSOs with at least 3 years of experience.
3. What are the thematic priorities?
Diversity & inclusion, gender equality & women empowerment, and access to justice.
4. What is the project duration?
24–48 months for Lots 1 & 2; 24–36 months for Lot 3.
5. Are partnerships required?
Yes, Lot 3 applicants outside Kosovo must partner with a local organisation.
6. What co-financing is required?
EU co-financing covers 60–95% of eligible costs; remaining funds must be secured by applicants.
7. How will projects be evaluated?
Based on relevance, impact, feasibility, inclusivity, and alignment with EU values.
Conclusion
The European Commission Civil Society Funding in Kosovo provides strategic support to strengthen democracy, inclusion, gender equality, and access to justice. By funding long-term, rights-based projects, the programme empowers civil society to promote social cohesion, accountability, and alignment with European standards, contributing to sustainable development and participatory governance in Kosovo.
For more information, visit European Commission (EC).
