EU and Member States Allocate €44M to Strengthen Civil Society in Ukraine

On March 27, the European Union, together with Sweden and Germany, announced a funding initiative worth €44 million to support civil society organizations in Ukraine.

According to the EU Delegation to Ukraine, a grant competition will be launched in May 2025, providing €14 million to civil society initiatives. Out of this amount, €5 million will be allocated specifically for gender leadership development and conflict resolution strategies.

In addition to the EU’s funding, Sweden and Germany are contributing an extra €17 million to enhance support for Ukrainian civil society organizations.

Furthermore, the EU is expediting a separate €13 million support package aimed at direct grants for projects focused on gender equality, accountability for war crimes, access to information, strengthening democratic governance, social cohesion, and sustainable development.

This financial support aligns with the EU’s broader strategy to reinforce civil society in Ukraine, bolster resilience against external threats, and ensure that humanitarian and integration efforts effectively reach those in need.

Additionally, the European Union is preparing a €10 million support package for independent media in Ukraine, as announced by EU Ambassador Katarína Mathernova.

She emphasized that supporting independent media is a key aspect of European assistance.

“At present, we have a €10 million support package for independent media in Ukraine this year. Seven million euros will be provided through our partners. In May, the EU delegation will launch a €3 million grant competition under two specific directions,” Mathernova stated.

She clarified that one focus area will be investigative journalism, while the other will support local and regional media.

Previously, it was reported that Denmark will invest €130 million ($140 million) in supporting its companies' investments in Ukrainian defense firms.