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European Union Launches Funding Call to Promote Media Freedom in Pakistan
The European Union invites proposals to support media freedom, freedom of expression, and journalist safety in Pakistan. Grants range €400K–€650K; concept notes due April 21. Info session: March 26, Islamabad.
ND
by News Desk
2026-03-03
European Union Launches Funding Call to Promote Media Freedom in Pakistan

The European Union has announced a new call for proposals to support projects that promote freedom of expression and media freedom in Pakistan. Concept notes for the initiative are due by 7pm on April 21.

The programme is designed to strengthen civil society-led initiatives in a sector that remains under pressure despite recent institutional progress. It aims to support human rights projects that enhance media professionalism, integrity, pluralism, and the capacity of independent media, while also improving the safety of journalists through measures such as legal aid and psychosocial support.

The call emphasizes the digital information space, inviting projects that address online and offline freedom of expression, provide support for victims of cybercrimes or false accusations, and counter hate speech, polarisation, and disinformation. Awareness campaigns and media literacy efforts, including in remote regions, are particularly encouraged.

In addition, the EU highlights the role of artificial intelligence, noting that proposals may examine both AI-related risks and opportunities for supporting information integrity and media work.

Youth participation is encouraged, given Pakistan’s young population and its significant engagement in digital spaces. The guidelines also stress the importance of integrating gender considerations, recognizing that women, girls, and transgender communities may be disproportionately affected by cyber harassment and technology-facilitated violence.

All proposed actions must follow a human-rights-based approach, including transparency, non-discrimination, and inclusive participation.

Funding under the programme totals nearly €2 million, with individual grants ranging from €400,000 to €650,000. Projects may run between 36 and 48 months. Applications must be submitted online through the EU’s PROSPECT system. An information session for applicants is scheduled for March 26 in Islamabad.

Each proposal must include at least one co-applicant based in Pakistan. Non-profit universities in Pakistan are also eligible to participate as co-applicants.

This EU initiative reflects the ongoing commitment to support media freedom, digital resilience, and human rights in Pakistan, encouraging collaborative and inclusive projects that strengthen the country’s media landscape.
Tagged:

EuropeanUnion

FreedomOfExpression

MediaFreedom

PakistanCivilSociety
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