In an open letter to EU institutions, BCSDN calls for clear safeguards, participation, and dedicated funding for civil society in the 2028–2034 MFF, warning that enlargement will depend on how commitments translate into real support. While the EU Civil Society Strategy and European Democracy Shield signal stronger recognition of civil society, current proposals—marked by more consolidated instruments, reduced earmarking, and greater discretion at national level—risk weakening independent actors and accountability. BCSDN calls on EU institutions to ensure the next MFF includes enlargement as a distinct and protected budgetary priority, with a clear enlargement envelope and dedicated civil society allocations. It also calls for dedicated and fit-for-purpose funding for civil society, including ring-fenced allocations, core and operational support, and predictable multi-annual funding. In addition, participation, conditionality, and protection should be embedded in funding design, through structured involvement and civic space safeguards. The next MFF is a critical opportunity to align political commitments with financial instruments. Read the letter here.
Source: BCSDN