EU Call to Strengthen Civil Society in Governance and Development (Bhutan)

Deadline: 21-Apr-2026

The European Union has launched a funding call under the Civil Society Organisations (CSO) Thematic Programme 2021–2027 to strengthen governance, democracy, and sustainable development in Bhutan.

With a total budget of EUR 1.6 million, grants ranging from EUR 400,000 to EUR 800,000 will support capacity building, policy engagement, economic sector participation, and sustainable financing models for Bhutanese CSOs over 24–48 months.

This initiative aligns with the EU Global Gateway strategy and Bhutan’s 21st Century Economic Roadmap.

Programme Overview

What Is This Funding Call?

This Call for Proposals is part of the EU Civil Society Organisations Thematic Programme 2021–2027.

Its purpose is to strengthen the role of Bhutanese civil society organisations (CSOs) in:

• Good governance

• Democratic participation

• Public accountability

• Inclusive and sustainable development

• Economic transformation

The call supports institutional strengthening, policy engagement, and sectoral contributions aligned with Bhutan’s national development priorities.

Strategic Context

EU Global Gateway and Bhutan

The initiative supports the EU’s Global Gateway strategy in Bhutan, which focuses on:

• Equitable economic growth

• Private sector development

• Youth and women employment

• Green transition and climate action

• Digitalisation, particularly in education

It also supports Bhutan’s commitment to maintaining forest cover and its carbon-negative status.

Objectives of the Call

Global Objective

To strengthen Bhutanese CSOs as actors of governance, democracy, accountability, and development.

Specific Objective 1 – Institutional Strengthening

Focus areas include:

• Government–CSO–Parliament dialogue mechanisms

• Transparency and sustainable partnerships

• Public finance management and accountability

• Citizen participation and inclusive governance

• Sustainable financing models (e.g., social enterprises)

• CSO networks and collective platforms

Specific Objective 2 – Economic and Policy Engagement

Focus areas include:

• Policy dialogue at Thromde, Dzongkhag, Gewog, and national levels

• Implementation and monitoring of development plans

• Contribution to key sectors:

  • Sustainable agri-food systems

  • Renewable energy

  • Circular economy

  • IT and digitalisation

  • Tourism

• Raising awareness of CSOs’ role in green growth and job creation

Funding Details

Total Budget

• EUR 1,600,000 (indicative)

Grant Size

• Minimum: EUR 400,000

• Maximum: EUR 800,000

Co-Financing Requirements

• EU contribution: 50%–80% of eligible costs

• Up to 90% in justified cases

• Remaining funding must come from non-EU sources

Project Duration

• Minimum: 24 months

• Maximum: 48 months

Who Is Eligible?

Eligible Lead Applicants

Must be:

• Legal, non-profit organisations

• Established in an EU Member State or Bhutan

• NGOs, CSOs, or CSO associations

Partnership Requirements

• EU-based lead applicant → At least 2 Bhutanese co-applicants

• Bhutan-based lead applicant → At least 1 Bhutanese co-applicant

Not Eligible

• International organisations

• For-profit entities

• Individuals

Why This Funding Matters

This call is strategically important because it:

1. Strengthens democratic governance in Bhutan

2. Enhances civil society sustainability and financial independence

3. Supports green economic sectors

4. Promotes inclusive development and accountability

5. Aligns with both EU external action priorities and Bhutan’s national roadmap

It directly contributes to governance reform, green transition, and economic resilience.

How to Apply

Step 1: Review Official Guidelines

Carefully study eligibility rules, budget conditions, and thematic priorities.

Step 2: Build a Strong Partnership

Ensure required Bhutanese co-applicants are secured.

Partnerships should demonstrate:

• Complementary expertise

• Geographic coverage

• Sector relevance

Step 3: Develop a Results-Oriented Proposal

Include:

• Clear problem statement

• Logical framework (objectives, outputs, indicators)

• Sustainability plan

• Risk mitigation strategy

• Co-financing confirmation

Step 4: Prepare Budget

Ensure:

• Compliance with co-financing percentage

• Realistic cost estimates

• Justified administrative expenses

Step 5: Submit Before Deadline

Submit through the designated EU funding portal in accordance with instructions.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Weak or incomplete partnerships

• Unrealistic budget planning

• Lack of measurable indicators

• Overly broad objectives

• Insufficient sustainability planning

• Ignoring co-financing requirements

Key Concepts Explained

Civil Society Organisations (CSOs)

Non-profit, non-governmental entities that represent citizens’ interests and contribute to policy dialogue and social development.

Co-Financing

A funding structure where the EU provides a percentage of total costs and the applicant must secure the remaining funds from other sources.

Global Gateway

The EU’s global investment strategy promoting sustainable infrastructure, digital transformation, climate action, and economic partnerships.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the total funding available?

EUR 1,600,000 is available under this call.

2. How much funding can one project receive?

Between EUR 400,000 and EUR 800,000.

3. How long can projects run?

Between 24 and 48 months.

4. Can international organisations apply?

No. International organisations are not eligible.

5. Is co-financing mandatory?

Yes. The EU funds 50%–80% (up to 90% in special cases). Remaining funds must come from other sources.

6. Are partnerships required?

Yes. Specific partnership requirements depend on whether the lead applicant is EU-based or Bhutan-based.

7. What sectors are prioritised?

Sustainable agri-food systems, renewable energy, circular economy, IT, tourism, and governance reform.

Conclusion

This EU Call for Proposals is a strategic opportunity for Bhutanese and EU-based civil society organisations to strengthen governance systems, improve accountability, and support green economic transformation in Bhutan.

By combining institutional capacity building, policy engagement, and economic sector participation, the initiative reinforces the long-term sustainability and democratic role of civil society in Bhutan’s development trajectory.

For more information, visit EC.