The Euromaidan protest, revolution, war in the east, and the illegal annexation of Crimea galvanised unprecedented civic activism and gave impetus to new volunteer movements. Yet, despite many positive changes, state institutions remain weak and many civil society organisations continue to perform state functions.

Corruption is also a major issue that continues to hinder the reform process. Civil society has made great strides in this area but the resistance to eradication of graft continues.

EED approach and added value

• Provide fast and flexible support to new civic and political actors, especially at grassroots and regional level for unregistered or emerging democratic groups and individuals
• Support for initiatives engaging youth and local community-based activism, especially in the regions and remote areas
• Fill an important funding gap, in particular for nascent groups or those deemed too politically sensitive for other donors

Examples of supported initiatives

• Hubs promoting local civic and youth activism
• Anti-corruption centres in the regions
• Support for nascent media organisations, especially in the regions

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