European Commission seeks nonprofits to join Civil Society Platform

The European Commission is looking for 30 charities and nonprofits to join its new Civil Society Platform — with interested organisations needing to apply by 3 August.

This new forum has been created as part of the Commission’s new Strategy for Civil Society, which was announced in November 2025.

The Commission says that members of the Platform should be “independent, non-profit civil society organisations with proven experience in promoting and protecting democracy, the rule of law, equality, fundamental rights and civic space”.

Members should ideally operate in multiple member states, candidate countries or potential candidate countries, according to a Call for Expression of Interest document published on 6 July by the Commission — but those with a smaller footprint may still be considered. This document also explains:

“Members will contribute as a partner in shaping the Platform’s priorities, review progress and assess challenges related to civic space and EU values as well as identifying opportunities for support and protection. The Platform will enable exchanges of knowledge, good practices, and updates and on the progress of implementation of the Strategy for Civil Society, to ensure that dialogue leads to meaningful impact.”

Applicants, who will be appointed to the platform for three years, need to complete two application forms and provide a one-page cover letter.

Nonprofits will not be paid for participation in the platform, although travel expenses for one person per member may be paid, according to a Terms of Reference document.