Finland supports human rights in developing countries together with international non-governmental organisations

The Ministry for Foreign Affairs has granted EUR 10 million for the human rights work of international non-governmental organisations (INGOs) for 2025–2026. The funding promotes Finland’s foreign and security policy and development policy objectives.

“A well-functioning democracy, the rule of law, human rights and a vibrant civil society are prerequisites for sustainable social development,” says Minister for Foreign Trade and Development Ville Tavio. 

Support was granted to nine international non-governmental organisations operating in developing countries. The project activities funded by Finland focus on gender equality and the rights of persons with disabilities, among other themes.

The funding was granted through an open call for discretionary government grant applications made in autumn 2024. Altogether 56 applications were submitted.

Discretionary government grants were awarded to the following organisations:

• Christian Blind Mission UK, EUR 1,225,000
• International Service for Human Rights (ISHR), EUR 1,200,000
• World Organization Against Torture (OMCT), EUR 1,180,000
• Access Now, EUR 1,180,000
• Business and Human Rights Resource Centre (BHRRC), EUR 1,154,150
• International Commission of Jurists (ICJ), EUR 1,140,000 euroa.
• International Work Group for Indigenous Affairs (IWGIA), EUR 1,086,750
• International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH), EUR 1,034,100 
• International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association (ILGA World), EUR 800,000