Nansen Project

Strengthening Democracy Through Civil Society in Ukraine

Strengthening Democracy Through Civil Society is a three-year initiative under the Nansen Programme (2025–2027) aimed at reinforcing democratic resilience in Ukraine during wartime. The project supports civil society actors across the country through grants, training, and international cooperation to help safeguard fundamental freedoms, civic participation, and the rule of law amid Russia’s full-scale invasion.

Administered by the Norwegian Helsinki Committee in partnership with the Centre for Civil Liberties and Kyiv Human Rights Hub, the project is funded by Norway. This page is dedicated to the initiative and provides up-to-date news and updates on its activities and impact.

What is Nansen Project?

Strengthening Democracy Through Civil Society is a three-year initiative (2025–2027) under the Nansen Programme focused on bolstering Ukraine’s democratic resilience during wartime. It works with civil society across the country by providing grants, training, and opportunities for international cooperation, helping to protect fundamental freedoms, civic engagement, and the rule of law in the face of Russia’s full-scale invasion.

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LGBTIQ+ Rights

Advancing LGBTIQ+ rights in Ukraine takes place in the context of Russia’s ongoing war of aggression and the country’s broader democratic transformation. Through advocacy, public campaigns, and community support, we work to counter stigma, strengthen social cohesion, and ensure that LGBTIQ+ people are not left behind in Ukraine’s humanitarian response and democratic development.

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Anti-Corruption

A central pillar of NHCs Nansen program is support to anti-corruption initiatives and journalism. Why? For Ukrainians, accountability is essential for a just and democratic future. For Norwegian donors and the public, it is equally important to know that support reaches its intended purpose and strengthens society from within.

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Womens Rights

Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine has heightened the risk of violence and discrimination against women and girls, as conflict deepens inequalities and increases exposure to gender-based and conflict-related sexual violence. Strengthening prevention, protection, and access to justice is therefore essential to supporting human rights and democratic resilience. In response, we work with partners and civil society organizations to prevent violence and ensure survivors receive legal support and protection.

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Investigative Journalism

Despite Russia’s full-scale invasion and heightened corruption risks driven by wartime spending and strained institutions, Ukrainian journalists continue to carry out critical investigative work—exposing wrongdoing and keeping the public informed.

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Culture and Outreach

Art and literature make it possible to see what facts alone cannot show. They help us understand ourselves, recognise others, and articulate experiences that are otherwise impossible to convey. In wartime, they become tools for reflection, resilience, and healing.

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News

Statement

Call for Applications: “Empowered to Influence-2” Small Grants for Ukrainian Civil Society Organisations

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Contacts

Employee

Arve Hansen

Senior AdviserEmail: [email protected]
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Employee

Mina Wikshåland Skouen

Senior Adviser Equal RightsEmail: [email protected]Phone: +47 90 82 50 76
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Employee

Olya Shamshur

Senior AdviserEmail: [email protected]Phone: +47 97 73 53 43
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