News and updates from BCSDN and the region
The European Commission has presented its proposal for the Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) 2028–2034, introducing a restructured funding model with potential implications for the EU Strategy for the Adriatic-Ionian Region (EUSAIR). While macroregional strategies are not explicitly mentioned, the new structure of €865 billion under National and Regional Partnership Plans aligns with EUSAIR priorities such
Read more →The key challenge for civil society media organizations is aligning their project pitches with the distinct goals of different funders. While many have strong ideas, their success hinges on presenting a narrative that resonates with the audience’s logic. For donors, pitches must focus on social impact, inclusion, and policy alignment, using powerful visual storytelling with
Read more →The stagnation of official development assistance (ODA) for gender equality is a major concern. Recent analysis reveals that, both in Sweden and globally, the proportion of aid dedicated to gender equality has stalled, which directly impacts the ability of civil society organizations to conduct their work. This lack of funding momentum coincides with a global
Read more →The European Commission has published a detailed briefing on the rule‑of‑law conditionality mechanism included in the 2021–2027 Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF), highlighting its role as a key element in protecting the EU budget from violations of fundamental principles. The mechanism, fully in effect since January 2021, gives the Commission the authority to take measures—such as
Read more →The new toolkit offers practical guidance for aligning actions, including monitoring restrictions, sharing information, engaging constructively with governments, and implementing measures that minimize harm. It emphasizes collaboration among donors, international organizations, civil society, and local actors, highlighting the importance of inclusive, well-informed partnerships. Better coordination among these actors is needed to ensure effective efforts and
Read more →Norway is intensifying its strategic engagement in the Western Balkans through targeted support for civil society development and media freedom. As part of its flagship regional initiative, the SMART Balkans project, implemented by a consortium led by the Center for Promotion of Civil Society (CPCD) and funded by the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs with
Read more →President von der Leyen announced the EU’s proposed €2 trillion Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) for 2028-2034, aimed at addressing Europe’s challenges and ambitions. The budget is designed to support citizens, businesses, and partners with a focus on cohesion, prosperity, competitiveness, security, external action, and EU administration. This decision has been well received by civil society
Read more →Across the European Union, core values like democracy and fundamental rights are under assault, directly leading to a shrinking civic space. Civil society organizations (CSOs) and human rights defenders face politically motivated attacks, making robust EU support critical. BCSDN strongly advocates for increased funding within the upcoming Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) for the Citizens, Equality,
Read more →Global crises highlight the urgent need for donor strategies that protect civic space. Existing systems, designed for extraction, require systemic reform led by marginalized communities, not “saviourism.” Donors must support genuine people power, foster accountability, and explicitly integrate civic space protection as a core objective. This means moving beyond traditional aid to truly empower civic
Read more →Worries are mounting over the future of the EU’s Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values (CERV) programme, the only EU funding instrument explicitly designed to support civil society. As discussions on the post-2027 Multiannual Financial Framework begin, there is growing concern that CERV could face cuts, absorption into broader programmes, or be sidelined in favor of
Read more →With only five years left to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), just 17% of targets are on track. A new report by Forus, “Unlocking the Power of Localization and Multi-Stakeholder Partnerships to Rescue the SDGs,” argues that localization is key to closing the implementation gap and making real progress. The report draws on over
Read more →The Philanthropy Europe Association (Philea), through its Journalism Funders Forum, has launched a survey to assess philanthropic engagement with media and journalism across Europe. The initiative aims to collect data on current funding levels, thematic and geographic priorities, and perceived challenges and gaps in supporting independent journalism. The findings will inform a more strategic and
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