In a joint letter, a coalition of 522 organisations has called on EU policymakers to defend a substantial budget increase for AgoraEU, the dedicated funding instrument for culture, independent media and journalism, fundamental rights and civil society. Despite its strategic importance, in its initial proposal the programme represents only 0.43% of the total EU budget — a level the coalition considers is insufficient to match the scale of the challenges facing these sectors.
A crucial debate on the new EU budget is underway. The European Commission proposes simplifying and merging programs that support civil society under the AgoraEU banner. Although funding is set to increase compared to current levels, civil society organizations are appealing: this is still not enough in the face of growing inequalities and the crisis of democracy. We have joined over 500 organizations from across Europe and together called on European decision-makers negotiating the next multiannual financial framework to support an increase in the AgoraEU program’s funding, in line with the European Parliament’s proposal.
What has European civil society already done on this issue?
More than 500 organisations from across Europe and beyond have joined forces to call on European policymakers negotiating the next MFF to support an increase of the AgoraEU’s programme, as proposed by the European Parliament, and to prioritise funding for democracy in the future budget. The signatories together represent a diversity of sectors, from culture and creation to journalism, from fundamental rights to civic participation, from independent media to equality and the rule of law. At the same time, the organizations have called for funding to strengthen democracy to be prioritized in the next EU budget. You can read our joint letter here: Call to support a strengthened AgoraEU in the next MFF.
Despite already a favourable vote on this matter by EP’s budget committee the work is not finished. Support for this initiative is still needed!
You can still get involved!
In order to continue building political momentum, please consider joining our initiative, and ask organizations in your network to do the same. You can join our letter by adding your organization’s signature via this FORM.
You can then publish the letter on your website and use your social media channels to publicize our joint letter and call on EU (as well as national) decision-makers to support an increase in the budget for the AgoraEU program. It is a simple gesture, but one that can contribute to the emerging mass movement to ensure adequate operating conditions for civil society organizations dedicated to the quality of our democracies and European values across the continent.
Let’s not wait for others to make decisions for us, but let’s encourage decision-makers to respond to our needs and recognize the role we play every day!
