This supports cooperation and networking projects between the Nordic countries and Northwest Russia in order to foster peaceful development in the Baltic sea and the Barents sea areas. Projects must foster cooperation between local authorities and NGOs within fields such as innovation, energy, environment, climate change, inclusion, human rights, social affairs and indigenous people. Projects should contribute to launching new initiatives, building capacity and establishing networks, exchanging of experiences and best practices, communication of results to relevant target groups, and activities should be able to continue after the end of the grant period. The call includes the two following opportunities:
- the open call – supporting projects of mutual Nordic and Russian interest anchored in co-operation and networking, with grants worth up to DKK 500,000;
- the civil society and human rights initiative – supporting small and bigger projects that strengthen civil society within all relevant fields, with grants worth up to DKK 500,000.
Consortia must involve at least two partners from different Nordic countries, including the Faroe Islands, Greenland and Åland, and at least one partner from a Northwest Russian region. Projects in the open call, as well as bigger projects in the civil society and human rights initiative, must involve multiple regions in Northwest Russia. Eligible partners and participants include local and regional authorities, civil society, educational institutions, think tanks and business organisations. Projects with a Nordic project leader or administrating body will be prioritised.
Projects may last for up to 18 months and grants cover the cost of travel and accommodation, seminars and conferences and translation and expert assistance.
For more information visit the Nordic Council of Ministers website.