Government earmarks SEK 100 million to civil society in Ukraine and its neighbourhood

“Every day, Ukraine is fighting not only for its own freedom, but for ours. Civil society in particular has shown enormous resilience despite Russia’s brutal war of aggression. That’s why we are now allocating SEK 100 million to civil society in Ukraine and its neighbourhood to increase the country’s capacity and long-term reconstruction,” says Minister for International Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade Benjamin Dousa.

“Civil society is playing a key role in the defence of Ukraine, as well as the ability to build a strong society in the long term. Here, too, it is important that Sweden contributes,” says Minister for Education and Integration Simona Mohamsson.

“Ukraine has been subjected to immense attacks by Russia. The country’s resilience, despite Russia’s long-term and persistent aggression, is a result of strong civilian cohesion. We’re now earmarking SEK 100 million with this targeted investment,” says Gudrun Brunegård, development assistance policy spokesperson for the Christian Democrats. 

The Government’s decision means that funds within the framework of the Strategy for Sweden’s Development Cooperation with Civil Society in 2025–2029 will particularly target activities in Ukraine, but also countries affected by Russia’s ongoing aggression against Ukraine and its actions in neighbouring countries, such as Armenia, Moldova, Georgia and Belarus. 

Earmarking SEK 100 million will ensure civil society organisations’ ability to contribute with urgent humanitarian operations, support to democratic movements and human rights defenders, and to long-term reconstruction in a region where civil society’s capacity and resilience are vital.