Correlation have contributed to a joint statement regarding operating grants for health NGOs, and what changes need to be made to support the work we are doing.

Operating Grants are crucial for health NGOs to continue playing their essential role in EU policymaking processes. While Operating Grants were reinstated and their value recognized within the EU4Health Work Programme 2022, so far, there is no formal commitment to continue this vital source of funding beyond 2022. In September 2022, this lack of visibility leaves health NGOs with serious concerns for their long-term sustainability and capacity to play their role, and, for some, with concerns over their very survival.

As we wait for the publication of the EU4Health 2023 Work Programme, members of the EU4Health Civil Society Alliance call on the European Commission to include Operating Grants for health NGOs in the 2023 Work Programme. We are also calling for Operating Grants to be reinstated through a multi-annual process to ensure better and timelier strategic planning.

Our organisations call on the European Commission to include Operating Grants as a financing mechanism to provide a strong foundation for the contribution of health NGOs as part of the 2023 Work Programme and beyond.