Decentralised MATRA and Human Rights Funds

The Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Skopje has MATRA delegated funds, for which non-governmental organizations, non-profit educational establishments, local authorities and semi-governmental agencies are eligible to apply.

Objective

Supporting a continued process of social transformation and democratization, based on the rule of law and a balanced relationship between government (strong public institutions) and its citizens (civil society). Projects with a regional scope/component to the benefit of good neighborly relations are welcomed, as are projects targeting communities outside of Skopje, especially young change agents.

Priorities

With MATRA, the emphasis is on the development of democracies governed by the rule of law. Under the heading fundamental rights this includes activities that aim to strengthen the social and interethnic cohesion in society. Fundamental rights projects proper, with a focus on women and LGBTI rights, are covered with the Human Rights Fund (HRF). Overall, the embassy targets the following results:
·         professional and independent judiciary;
·         public order and professional and robust law enforcement (incl. security sector reform, accountability, preventing and combatting organized crime and corruption, preventing and countering radicalization and violent extremism);
·         good governance and transparent and accountable public administration (incl. citizen empowerment, effective (parliamentary) oversight, electoral reform and election monitoring, professional and independent media);
·         respect for fundamental rights (incl. women, LGBTI, freedom of expression, safety of journalists, interethnic and social cohesion). 

Project summary form can be downloaded here. Completed forms can be sent to us by using the contact form.