Switzerland and Romania signed a bilateral Framework Agreement in December 2022, aiming to reduce economic and social disparities within the EU and Romania.

This Agreement is part of the second Swiss Contribution, with a total value of CHF 1.3 billion, of which CHF 221.5 million is allocated to Romania for the implementation of 11 programmes (Support Measures) by 2029.

The Civic Engagement Programme is one of the 11 Support Measures and is implemented by a consortium consisting of:

This consortium was selected by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation.

Unlike the other programmes within the Swiss-Romanian Cooperation Programme, which are co-financed by the Romanian Government up to 15%, the Civic Engagement Programme is fully funded by Switzerland.


Official website of the Programme >>>

Civic Engagement Programme’s Goal

 

With a total funding allocation of CHF 14 million for grants, the Civic Engagement Programme’s goal is to strengthen civic space in Romania so that its inhabitants participate more actively in public affairs, influence policy making, and contribute to democratic reforms, transparency, accountability and systemic social change in Romania through their engagement in civil society spaces and in favour of the wellbeing of the population.

The Civic Engagement Programme will provide funding through two windows that will target key areas for the development of a fair and democratic society, as follows:

1st window

Large grants, through projects delivering impact at the national or regional level with an integrated approach.

The predefined Thematic Areas to be addressed through large grants are:

1. Fight against discrimination and social exclusion. Initiatives promoting equal opportunities and the inclusion of vulnerable groups.
2. Protection of biodiversity and environmental rights. Projects aimed at conserving natural resources and adapting to climate change.
3. Media transparency and investigative journalism. Supporting independent journalism and free access to information.
4. Assistance to victims of violence (Trafficking in Human Beings, Gender Based Violence, violence against children, etc.). Support and rehabilitation for victims of violence, as well as prevention initiatives.

Details about the 1st window >>>



2nd window

Small grants, through projects delivering impact at local level, covering relevant areas of the Programme.

Two main areas are addressed:

1. Civic engagement and advocacy. Advocacy actions and initiatives to increase citizens’ involvement.
2. Social inclusion and actions for the empowerment of vulnerable groups. Projects to support vulnerable groups, including children, youth, and people with disabilities.

 
Details about the 2nd window >>>



The Civic Engagement Programme is funded by the Swiss-Romanian Cooperation Programme and is managed by a consortium consisting of