The European Union (EU) is funding a €2.6 million project to enhance transparency, accountability and civic participation in Sri Lanka.
The “Together We Rise” initiative, implemented by World Vision and SAFE Foundation in Sri Lanka, aims to strengthen civil society and promote human rights, inclusion and accountable governance.
The project will support 50 civil society organisations, over three years, by providing training and resources, and engaging government institutions, policymakers and 250 social activists.
“With this EUR 2.6 million programme, the EU is investing in a stronger partnership with civil society for inclusive and sustainable development,” Johann Hesse, Head of Cooperation at the European Union in Sri Lanka, said.
“Civil society organisations work alongside public institutions, helping to reach communities, mobilise citizens, and support the implementation of activities that are both national and EU priorities.”
The project is expected to reach 701,100 people across 9 districts, with a focus on underserved and conflict-affected areas, and women-led, youth-led organisations and those representing persons with disabilities.
The project will conduct a Capacity Development Needs Assessment (CDNA) to understand the strengths and gaps of selected civil society organisations, and based on the findings, tailor capacity development plans.
CSOs will be strengthened in key areas including governance and leadership, financial management and compliance, inclusion, safeguarding, and gender equity, civic engagement and advocacy, digital capacity and innovation, as well as resilience and long-term sustainability.
Selected CSOs will be given small grants to implement their development plans.