Egyptians protesting in Cairo.
Photo: Al Hussainy Mohammed/Creative Commons

Egyptians protesting in Cairo. Photo: Al Hussainy Mohammed/Creative Commons

About cooperation with civil society

Support to actors working for democracy and freedom of expression

Published: Tuesday, December 18, 2012

Changed: Tuesday, December 18, 2012

Support for democratisation and freedom of expression is a way to strengthen actors of change with better opportunities to disseminate and receive information as well as to express their opinions. The initiative was launched in 2009 in accordance with the new policy from the Swedish government.

The aim of the Swedish Special Initiative for Democratisation and Freedom of Expression is to provide actors of change in different countries with the ability to work for diversity and freedom of opinion and thereby pave the way for a democratic, transparent decision-making and changes in legislation, etc. The problems include laws that limit freedom of association and assembly, freedom of religion, freedom of the press, Internet access, fair trial in court and other restrictions of civil rights and liberties. In 2012, Sida has channelled 215 million SEK to implement the initiative.

The support will be divided between long-term and strategic work, and direct rapid response interventions targeting individuals and stakeholders in civil society around the world. Sida prioritises support for democracy activists who use digital technology and the Internet as an arena and communication channel.

The support can be channelled through national, regional and global organisations.

How to apply for funding through the initiative through calls for proposals

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What is civil society?

For Sida, civil society is an arena, separate from the state, the market and the individual household, in which people organise themselves and act together to promote their common interests. Sida cooperates with eg people's movements, social communities, women's movements, environmental movements, religious associations, cooperatives, neighborhood committees and trade unions.

 
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Report on Sida's results: Democracy, Human Rights and Human Rights based approach

A shortened version of Sida's Results Appendix to our Annual Report 2011. Describes results of activities focusing mainly on democratic development and greater respects for human rights as well as how the human rights approach is applied.

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Q&A about procurement at Sida. What regulations apply? What if I submit after the deadline? How do I know what documents are required?

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