AgoraEU and the CERV+ Strand: joint civil society recommendations
The European Commission's proposal for the new Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) 2028–2034 is taking shape. It includes the newly framed programme AgoraEU, which brings together support for culture, media, and civil society. Within it, the strand CERV+ (Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values) is particularly relevant to our work to end female genital mutilation (FGM).
As talks on the Regulation progress, we joined efforts with several civil society organisations, including the Center for Reproductive Rights, EL*C EuroCentralAsian Lesbian* Community, Equipop, IGLYO, ILGA-Europe, IPPF, OII Europe, and TGEU to urge the European Parliament and the Council of the EU to support the following provisions:
1. Safeguard the overall amount proposed for CERV+
The proposed budget for CERV+ must be fully safeguarded to ensure that the EU’s commitment to democracy, equality, and rights is matched by adequate resources. Reducing this allocation would directly weaken the capacity of civil society to protect fundamental values and support marginalised groups.
2. Specifically mention advocacy, watchdog activities, strategic litigation, and campaigning as eligible activities under CERV+
CERV+ should explicitly recognise advocacy, watchdog work, strategic litigation, and campaigning as eligible activities, affirming the role of civil society as a democratic actor, not merely a service provider. These activities are essential to hold institutions accountable, advance policy change, and protect the rights of all communities.
3. Improve the wording of certain thematic lines to be inclusive and comprehensive
The language of the Regulation must clearly reflect inclusion, diversity, and intersectionality across all thematic strands. Strong, inclusive wording ensures that no group, particularly those facing multiple forms of discrimination, is left behind in EU funding priorities.
4. Ensure a fair and appropriate distribution of funds between the different thematic strands
Funding must be distributed equitably across all strands of CERV+, with balanced support for equality, participation, and fundamental rights. A fair allocation prevents competition between causes and strengthens the shared fabric of European civil society.
5. Safeguard core funding and regranting
Sustained operating grants and regranting mechanisms are vital for the stability of networks and grassroots organisations. These tools enable smaller and survivor-led groups to plan long-term, respond to emerging challenges, and reach communities often left out of traditional funding schemes.
6. Maintain direct management
CERV+ should continue to be directly managed by the European Commission to preserve independence from national political influence. Direct management guarantees fair access and protects civil society organisations in countries where democratic space is shrinking.
7. Ensure synergies do not impede eligibility for substrands
While coordination between programmes is welcome, synergies must not create administrative barriers or restrict eligibility across strands. Civil society organisations should be able to access multiple relevant funding opportunities without duplication or exclusion.