In many countries around the world non-governmental actors are working with dedication and bravery, often in difficult conditions, to help ensure the effective protection of human rights and the advancement of democracy. Support to such organisations is a priority for the European Union.

The European Initiative for Democracy and Human Rights was created by the European Parliament in 1994 to support both the activities of civil society working for human rights and democracy and the efforts of international organisations. It was renamed the European Instrument for Democracy and Human Rights (EIDHR) in December 2006. 

The EIDHR has the following objectives:

• support to human rights and human rights defenders in situations where they are most at risk;
• support to other EU human rights priorities with main focus on protecting human dignity;
• support to democracy;
• support to EU Election Observation Missions;
• support to international and regional human rights instruments and mechanisms.

What are EIDHR projects in Russia?

EIDHR projects in Russia are implemented by Russian and European non-governmental, non-profit-making organisations. The EU allocates between 250 000 and 1 million EUR to each project. Usually the grant beneficiary must part-finance at least 5% of the project costs from its own funds or from a grant awarded by another donor. Projects have the duration of between 18 and 36 months.

Since its launch in Russia in 1997, the EIDHR has supported over 400 projects.

How EIDHR projects are selected?

The projects are selected on the results of local, regional or global (worldwide) calls for proposals. The complete information of the calls is published on the following website of the European Commission. On this website anyone can find Guidelines for applicants for each EIDHR call for proposals. The Guidelines set out thematic priorities, specific modalities and other conditions of the calls. The selection is based on objective and transparent criteria, which are also indicated in this document.