What is the Europe for Citizens programme?

The Europe for Citizens programme is an important instrument that encourages citizens to play a stronger role in the development of the EU. Citizens can participate and make their voice heard through a multitude of projects and activities building a bridge from the local to the international. Tackling common issues together ensures
better outcomes and a stronger sense of European citizenship, which is built on such values as peace, democracy, and dialogue.    

The aim of Europe for Citizens programme is to:
  • Contribute to citizens' understanding of the EU, its history and diversity.
  • Foster European citizenship and improve conditions for civic and democratic participation at EU level.
The financed projects will raise awareness of remembrance, common history and values of the EU and encourage civic participation of citizens at EU level by developing their understanding of the EU policy making-process and stimulating involvement in EU policy making.

SEE PROJECT EXAMPLES FROM THE BALTIC SEA REGION HERE.

What does it support?

Arising from the aims of the programme, Europe for Citizens is implemented through action grants in two strands and operating grants.

Action grants

Strand 1. European remembrance - the EU as a peace project
This strand supports initiatives which reflect on the causes of the totalitarian regimes that blighted Europe's
modern history, look at its other defining moments and reference points, and consider different historical
perspectives.
Project duration: up to 18 months
Grant amount: maximum €100 000

Strand 2. Democratic engagement & civic participation - getting citizens involved

2.1 Town twinning
Projects will bring together citizens from twinned towns and municipalities to debate issues from the European political agenda. They will develop opportunities for societal engagement and volunteering at EU level.
Both existing and new partnerships are encouraged.
Project duration: up to 21 days
Grant amount: maximum €25 000

2.2 Networks of towns
Towns and municipalities are encouraged to cooperate with others on a long‑term basis to explore particular topics or themes, share resources or interests, gain influence or face common challenges.
Project duration: up to 24 months
Grant amount: maximum €150 000

2.3 Civil society projects
These projects give citizens an opportunity to participate concretely in the EU policy-making process.
They stimulate debates to propose practical solutions through cooperation at European level.
Project duration: up to 18 months
Grant amount: maximum €150 000

Operating grants

In addition, the European Commission supports European public‑policy research organisations (think tanks) and civil society organisations with European outreach.

Project catalogue for Europe for Citizens 2014-2020 is available on European Commission's website.


Who does what?

Europe for Citizens is implemented by the Executive Agency for Education, Audiovisual and Culture (EACEA).

The European Commission supervises the EACEA's work and is responsible for all tasks implying political
choices - notably defining strategies and priorities for action. The Commission shares good practices and results.

Information and consultation is offered by national Europe for Citizens contact points in participating countries.