Financing instrument for the promotion of democracy and human rights worldwide

Period: 2007-2013
Budget: EUR 1 104 000 000

The financial instrument for the promotion of democracy and human rights worldwide is new created instrument supports the promotion, development and consolidation of democracy and the rule of law as well as the respect for human rights.

It aims to contribute to an increased respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms and to promote democratic reforms in third countries through support to civil society organisations support. Furthermore to support and enhance the international framework for the protection, promotion and monitoring of human rights, the promotion of democracy and the rule of law and reinforce an active for civil society within these frameworks.

This instrument is implemented through Strategy papers setting out the priorities and specific objectives and through Annual Action Programmes which are based on the Strategy papers. In case of exceptional circumstances, the Commission can adopt Special measures which are not included in the Strategy papers. Funding is also available by Support measures and Ad hoc measures. Ad hoc measures are used to support human right defenders responding to urgent needs.

Funding under this instrument is awarded to the following types of activities:

• Projects and programmes

• Grants to projects submitted by international and regional intergovernmental organisations

• Grants to human rights defenders to finance urgent protection measures

• Grants to support operating costs of the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights

• Grants to support operating costs of the European Inter-University Centre for Human Rights and Democratisation

Following types of entities are eligible for funding

• Civil society organisations

• Public sector non profit agencies, institutions and organisations and networks at a local, regional and international level

• National, regional and international parliamentary bodies

International and regional inter-governmental organisations

• Natural persons when it is necessary for the achievement of this instruments objectives

Exceptionally even other bodies and actors can receive funding if it is justified in order to achieve the objectives of this instrument