Barriers to Civil Society Organisations’ participation in EU-Funded programmes in Bulgaria
Technical review and recommendations on the application of state aid/de minimis Regime and the withdrawal of advance payments.
Civil society organisations (CSOs) play a vital role in the effective implementation of EU-funded programmes, particularly in reaching vulnerable and marginalised groups, promoting social inclusion, introducing innovations and strengthening public accountability. This is recognised by Regulation (EU) 2021/1060, Article 8 (partnership principle) and the European Code of Conduct on Partnership.
According to the Civic Participation Index 2023 report, there is a decline in the activity of CSOs due to their limited opportunities to participate in decision-making processes and difficult dialogue with public bodies. Among the factors preventing CSOs from participating more actively in civic activities and initiatives, over 70% respond that they do not have enough people in the team to participate. CSOs face major challenges, such as, reduced staff teams, and the lack of sufficient capacity, both caused by a lack of funding, a trend Eurochild has observed across Europe.
