The Platform aims to strengthen dialogue on values such as fundamental rights, democracy, equality and the rule of law, as stated in Article 2 of the Treaty on European Union. It is also mentioned that, over time, it may be expanded to cover other policy areas.
The Platform, which will be open to independent and non-profit civil society organizations, will bring together organizations with proven experience in democracy, rule of law, equality, protection and advancement of fundamental rights and civic space. The Platform is expected to contribute to addressing the challenges faced by organizations operating in more than one EU member state and/or enlargement countries and to strengthen their role in EU policy-making processes.
The agenda of the Platform, established in line with the "10 Guiding Principles" for dialogue with civil society, will be determined jointly by the European Commission and civil society organizations. Members will contribute to shaping the Platform’s priorities, evaluate developments and challenges related to civic space and EU values, and help identify opportunities for support and protection.
In addition to information and best practice sharing, the Platform will serve as a permanent structure to address developments concerning the implementation of the EU Civil Society Strategy.
Up to 30 members will be selected
The Platform will consist of up to 30 members selected for a three-year term. The duration of membership can be renewed through new calls for expressions of interest to be announced in the future.
Organizations applying must be independent, non-governmental and non-profit entities. They must be legally established in an EU member state, a European Economic Area country, an EU candidate country, or a potential candidate country, and be registered in the EU Transparency Register.
Additionally, applicants are expected to have at least three years of experience at the national, European or international level in areas such as democracy, rule of law, equality, fundamental rights, and civic space.
The call also foresees that organizations should preferably operate in at least seven EU member states, in at least three candidate or potential candidate countries, or have a similarly complex geographical structure. However, it is stated that organizations not meeting this specific condition may also be considered, provided they fulfill all other criteria and have relevant experience in more than one country.
Applicant organizations must also have an independent governance structure, demonstrate commitment to the fundamental values of the European Union, ensure transparency in their operations, and have internal mechanisms to prevent and manage risks related to non-compliance with EU values.
Representation in seven priority areas
The Commission states that the Platform will be established so as to reflect different areas of expertise and geographic diversity. In this context, members are expected to operate in the following priority areas:
- Fundamental rights (including the rights of children and victims)
- Democracy (including transparency and democratic participation)
- Rule of law
- Civic space (including the protection of human rights defenders)
- Media, journalism and press freedom
- Equality and non-discrimination
- Digital rights and freedoms
Applications to the Platform can be submitted until August 3.
For detailed information: https://commission.europa.eu/document/0b8faa72-3606-4492-a4c1-88673a4be631_en