Annual Report 2022

The NHC 2021 annual report concluded on a cautiously optimistic note, but we could hardly have predicted what the following year would hold. However, again civil society has shown its resilience and its ability to adapt to new circumstances.

In Central Europe, Hungary has isolated itself further from democratic neighbours in the EU. Poland is fighting a battle over the rule of law both internally and with the EU. Nevertheless, Poland's upcoming parliamentary election in 2023 could yet bring about change. The NHC was a partner in projects promoting civil society in Central Europe and more effective implementation of judgements of the European Court of Human Rights in Croatia.

As the donor contact point for the Active Citizens Fund, we had an exceptionally busy year in 2022, organizing not one as usual, but two successful Active Citizens Days events, focusing on capacity building and advocacy for social inclusion. We also travelled extensively, participating in Estonia's democracy festival, attending the Baltic Pride, several conferences for fund operators, and co-organizing an event for Arendalsuka, an annual political festival in Norway.

Looking ahead to 2023, there are glimmers of hope on the horizon. The EU's rollout of its new €1.5 billion Rights and Values programme, modelled on the Active Citizens Fund, will provide much-needed support to civil society. Furthermore, negotiations between Norway and its EFTA partners and the EU for the next period of the EEA Grants are ongoing and expected to result in more support for civil society and the environment, as well as a larger total amount. We are proud to provide support and advice to the Financial Mechanism Office and the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs on how best to design the funding mechanism for the next period.

We are heartened by the resilience of civil society and the continued support from our partners and funders. As we move forward, we will continue to work tirelessly to support our partners in Central and Eastern Europe, promoting democracy, equality, and justice. So, despite the disasters of 2022, we remain, as ever, cautiously enthusiastic.