Promotes rights, values, and citizen engagement across Europe.
The Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values (CERV) programme is an EU funding initiative launched in 2021 for a seven-year period. It aims to protect and promote rights and values enshrined in EU Treaties, the Charter of Fundamental Rights, and international human rights conventions. CERV focuses on four main areas: Union values, equality and rights, citizens' engagement and participation, and combating violence (Daphne). The programme supports civil society organizations, public authorities, and other stakeholders active at local, regional, national, and transnational levels. With a total budget of €1.55 billion for 2021-2027, CERV provides funding through grants, tenders, and prizes. The programme supports various activities, including training, mutual learning, awareness-raising, analytical activities, and support for key actors. Eligible applicants include civil society organizations, European networks, public authorities, and equality bodies. Funding criteria typically involve demonstrating EU added value, transnational impact, and alignment with programme objectives. Recent projects funded by CERV include initiatives to boost political participation in rural areas, combat gender-based violence, and promote citizens' engagement in EU policymaking. The programme particularly emphasizes supporting projects that encourage democratic participation and cultivate diversity in European society.