Обьявление на русском языке здесь
The Norwegian Helsinki Committee is glad to announce that we are now accepting proposals for our Small Grants Program for human rights in Central Asia. We invite non-governmental organizations, civil society groups, human rights defenders, activists, journalists and others with a mission to promote and protect human rights in Central Asia to submit their applications before 31.12.2025, 12.00 Almaty time.
The call is open for initiatives from and in all five Central Asian states. Project budgets may vary from a minimum of 500 USD to a maximum of 9999 USD.
For a pointer on some of the key objectives of the NHC Small Grants Programme please refer to the list below. Take note however, that the Norwegian Helsinki Committee believes that civil society activists in their respective countries best know the situation and the needs on the ground and will consider all projects designed to promote human rights, democracy and civic activism in Central Asia.
Key Objectives of the NHC Central Asia Small Grants Program:
- Support local non-governmental organizations and civil society groups, and enable them to play an active role in promoting human rights and democratic values in Central Asia
- Strengthen and develop civil society, especially in smaller towns, rural areas and in areas outside major cities
- Fight discrimination and persecution of vulnerable and at-risk groups and individuals
- Support democratic reforms
- Increase access to justice for victims of human rights violations
- Document human rights violations and fight impunity
- Support independent media initiatives
- Defend fundamental freedoms and rights
Frequently asked questions (FAQ):
Who can apply?
Any organization, group or individual with a plan to promote human rights in Central Asia is encouraged to apply, although larger well-established organizations with stable funding are not the target group for this program.
Can I submit more than one application?
No, unfortunately. For this call the Norwegian Helsinki Committee only accepts one application per applicant.
My project activities will take place outside Central Asia, can I still apply?
Yes, although the Norwegian Helsinki Committee prioritizes initiatives located in Central Asia, interesting exiled initiatives will also be considered.
I am a journalist/blogger. Am I eligible to apply?
Yes, both strengthening the independent media sector and protecting and promoting press freedom are priorities for the Norwegian Helsinki Committee in Central Asia. We welcome submissions from you if your project will protect the rights of media actors and/or promote or strengthen independent journalism in your country.
I have already received funding from the Norwegian Helsinki Committee. May I still apply?
Yes.
I don’t have an organization, am I still eligible for support?
Yes, unregistered initiatives, individuals, or groups are welcome to apply for support.
What amount of support should I apply for?
While the maximum budget allowed under this program is USD 9999, the budget should reflect project activities that can be realistically implemented during the project period. We encourage new groups to apply for smaller amounts and will consider budgets down to USD 500.
What is the time limit for the project activities?
The project activities must take place between January 2025 and October 2026.
Can I apply in Russian?
Yes, the Norwegian Helsinki Committee accepts applications in Russian and English although the application form is only available in English.
When can I expect an answer?
The NHC will consider all applications once the application deadline runs out and will get back to you in the weeks following the application deadline.
Interested organizations should apply by: 31. December 2025.
All interested parties are invited to register at our Portal. Note: The Norwegian Helsinki Committee now only accepts project proposals submitted through our Portal. Please send us an email to [email protected] to request a link to the portal. Mark the subject of the email: Request for access. Please note that it may take up to a week to approve registration, so we recommend that you do this early in the process.
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