Strengthening Civil Society and Local Authorities in Venezuela

Venezuela is currently facing a multifaceted crisis that encompasses political, economic, and social dimensions. This has led to a complex humanitarian emergency, with millions of Venezuelans forced to migrate. In response, the European Union (EU) has been a key partner in promoting peaceful, institutional, and democratic solutions, as well as fostering sustainable development and poverty alleviation. Ecorys will support the EU to implement and manage their assisting efforts.

Background

Civil society organisations (CSO’s) in Venezuela play a crucial role in defending human rights, promoting democracy, and assisting vulnerable communities. However, these organisations face numerous challenges, including restricted civic space, lack of resources, and insecurity. Despite these difficulties, CSOs continue to work tirelessly to support the population and advocate for a more just and democratic society.

The EU’s cooperation framework for 2021-2027 focuses on human rights and democracy, environmental preservation, civil society support, and the rehabilitation of basic services. This project is part of the EU’s broader strategy to strengthen the social fabric and improve the quality of life for Venezuelans

Our work

Ecorys will support the EU with effectively implementing and managing this project. We will be involved in organising a series of activities designed to enhance the capacities of civil society organisations (CSO’s) and local authorities (LAs). These activities are aimed at improving their knowledge and management skills, enabling them to effectively implement and manage EU-funded projects. This is how we will support:

• We will run specialised workshops on key topics, including the EU’s Practical Guide to Contract Procedures (PRAG), financial regulations, and the logical framework methodology. Participants will also receive hands-on training in EU IT systems, such as OPSYS and the Funding & Tenders Portal, with practical simulations to prepare them for real-world project management and implementation.
• We will provide tailored advisory services to strengthen the knowledge and management skills of CSOs and LAs, ensuring each organisation receives the specific support needed to address its unique challenges and improve efficiency.
• We will create and distribute educational materials, including guides on project management, financial regulations, and best practices, providing lasting resources for participants to support continued learning and application.
• We will organise annual consultations for human rights defenders and civil society representatives to foster dialogue and collaboration among CSOs and LAs. We will also host thematic events to address specific challenges, providing opportunities for participants to engage with experts, share experiences, and learn from one another.

Through these efforts, the EU aims to empower Venezuelan civil society and local authorities, enabling them to play a more active and effective role in the country’s development and governance. By enhancing their capacities, the project seeks to create a more resilient and capable network of organisations that can drive positive change and contribute to the overall well-being of the Venezuelan population.

For more information, please reach out to Ignacio Garcia.