Our cooperation with the European Union
The European Union provides unique funding instruments (The Development Cooperation Instrument (DCI) and The European Development Fund (EDF) which northern and southern NGOs can access via Calls for Proposals to obtain funding for their developmental initiatives. Kindernothilfe regularly participates in such EU grant tender processes to seek funding for its more comprehensive multi-annual projects. Since 1997 Kindernothilfe has succeeded in securing EU funding for a wide range of projects in Africa, Asia and Latin America. They have centered on manifold topics such as the prevention of child trafficking (Kenya), food security (Burundi) or maternal & child rights (Bangladesh).
Our EU grant-funded projects must conform to strict funding and implementation guidelines. The application process, but also the projects’ monitoring, reporting and accounting require a close and trusting cooperation with our local partners and a high level of project expertise on all sides. These actions thereby foster mutual learning, accountability and capacity building and make a valuable contribution to the continuous process of quality development to which Kindernothilfe and its partner organizations are committed. The EU is an important institutional donor to Kindernothilfe. Its support enables us and our partners to design initiatives whose outreach, scope, thematic approach and envisioned impact extend those of purely donation-funded projects. Generally, these projects center on lobby- and advocacy activities that aim to influence policy making and to remove structural barriers to development and to the enjoyment of child rights. Although these kinds of projects do not easily attract the interest of the general public, they are an essential pillar in Kindernothilfe’s rights-based approach to development and a centerpiece of Kindernothilfe’s strategic orientation.
Project example Philippines
The success of the project has brought hope to the people in Antique. Their strength as a community has given them a confidence they never thought possible. They have become united. And in this unity they have become empowered.
Project example Guatemala
Young people are learning how to participate as active citizens and become directly involved in local politics. This leads to more tax money being spent on creating a child-friendly society in their area. As a result, more taxes are invested so that youth can grow up in a secure and nurturing environment. Training is now available at the partner organisation’s vocational centres and graduates earn enough income to support their families.
Adults, including media representatives, participated in training to better acquaint themselves with the rights of children and youth. This has led to a stronger commitment to advocating for their rights.