Strengthening civil society
The Swiss enlargement contribution provides CHF 105 million for financing projects that strengthen civil society. A support fund for non-governmental organisations (NGO fund) is financed in all partner countries, except Malta.
The NGO fund particularly supports social and environmental projects that support and strengthen the participation of civil society in the economic and social development of the country. Overall, one in five projects is realised with Swiss involvement. The NGOs benefit from Swiss expert knowledge by involving Swiss partners in projects. At the same time, Swiss organisations can expand their networks and improve their competences thanks to partnerships with organisations in the partner countries. In Bulgaria, Poland, Slovakia, Slovenia, Romania, the Czech Republic and Hungary, there is a partnership fund in addition to the NGO fund.
Results
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In all countries except Malta, a total of 935 NGOs have received support, e.g. a foundation that helps socially disadvantaged groups gain access to education and training. © SDC
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One of the focal points of the NGO projects was the environment. In Czechia, 35 projects have helped maintain biodiversity and nature reserves under threat. © SDC
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Skilled workers are migrating from Romania. In order to provide the population with professional and social prospects, social institutions received support. © SDC
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In Bulgaria, NGOs promote organic farming, the production of regional products and ecological tourism. © SDC
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Partnership projects in Bulgaria, Czechia, Hungary, Poland, Romania, Slovakia and Slovenia have facilitated exchanges in specialised knowledge, e.g. in the transport sector. © SDC
