UN Women Seeks Proposals for Campaign Against Online Violence in Western Balkans

UN Women has announced a significant Call for Proposals, seeking civil society organizations (CSOs) to lead a large-scale campaign against online violence targeting women and girls in the Western Balkans. This initiative, funded by the European Union, aims to address the growing issue of technology-facilitated abuse and promote gender equality in digital spaces. The program, titled “EU4 Gender Equality – Women’s Economic Empowerment and Ending Violence Against Women in the Western Balkans,” offers funding between USD 180,000 and USD 200,000 for selected organizations. The deadline for applications is June 12, 2026.

This funding opportunity is crucial for combating the pervasive nature of online harassment and abuse, which disproportionately affects women and girls. UN Women, the United Nations entity dedicated to gender equality, is committed to supporting efforts that protect vulnerable populations and foster safer online environments. The selected CSO will play a key role in raising awareness, driving behavioral change, and increasing knowledge of rights and available support services across the region.

About UN Women and the EU4 Gender Equality Programme

UN Women works globally to advance gender equality and empower women. Their mission includes ending violence against women and girls, promoting economic empowerment, and strengthening women’s leadership. They collaborate with various partners, including governments and civil society, to tackle structural inequalities.

The “EU4 Gender Equality” program is a joint effort between the European Union and UN Women. It specifically targets critical gender equality challenges in the Western Balkans. These challenges include violence against women and girls, economic disparities, harmful social norms, and limited access to support systems. The program aims to improve regional cooperation and institutional responses to gender-based violence.

Purpose of the Call for Proposals

The primary goal of this call is to find a qualified Civil Society Organization (CSO) to act as a Responsible Party. This organization will be tasked with developing and implementing a regional campaign focused on violence against women and girls, with a special emphasis on online and technology-facilitated abuse. The campaign should aim to increase public understanding of issues like cyber harassment, digital stalking, and online hate speech. It also seeks to shift harmful attitudes and behaviors that contribute to gender-based violence in digital spaces.

Furthermore, the initiative intends to ensure that women and girls are better informed about their legal rights and the support services available to them. This includes protection mechanisms and reporting channels, which are especially important for those most affected by online violence and discrimination. The selected CSO will also contribute to communication strategies for high-level regional advocacy events.

Key Objectives for the Campaign

The selected organization will work towards several important objectives. First, it will aim to significantly raise awareness about the various forms of violence women and girls face online. This includes educating the public about cyber harassment, digital stalking, and gender-based online abuse.

Second, the campaign will focus on promoting behavioral change. This involves challenging harmful stereotypes and encouraging respectful online interactions, gender equality, and positive social norms. Digital safety and community engagement will be key components of this effort.

Third, the program seeks to increase knowledge of rights and support services. Women and girls need to know their legal protections and where to find assistance. This objective is particularly crucial for vulnerable groups experiencing online violence.

Finally, the initiative will support regional advocacy efforts. The chosen CSO will help shape communication for the Regional Forum on Ending Violence Against Women and Girls in both 2026 and 2027, contributing to policy discussions.

Funding Amount and Eligibility

The funding available for this initiative ranges from USD 180,000 to USD 200,000. Proposals that exceed the maximum amount will not be considered. Applicants must ensure their proposed budgets are realistic and align with the expected deliverables of the program. This funding is intended to support substantial regional communication and advocacy activities.

UN Women is specifically looking for Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) with proven experience in gender equality, women’s rights, digital safety, and behavioral change campaigns. Experience in regional program implementation and working within the Western Balkans region would be advantageous. Strong expertise in public awareness, advocacy, digital communication, and human rights is also highly valued.

Geographic Focus and Information Session

The program’s geographic focus is the Western Balkans. Campaign activities and outreach efforts must be designed to reach populations across this region.

UN Women will host an online information session for interested organizations on June 1, 2026, at 12:00 CET. This session, conducted via Zoom, will provide details on proposal requirements and the application process. Organizations must register in advance to receive confirmation and joining instructions.

Proposal Submission and Contact Information

The deadline for submitting proposals is June 12, 2026, at 12:00 CET. Late submissions will not be considered. Selected organizations will need to accept all legal terms in the Partner Agreement and register on the UN Partner Portal (UNPP).

For any additional questions, interested organizations can contact Natalija Ostojic via email at [email protected]. This opportunity represents a significant chance for CSOs to contribute to ending violence against women and girls in the digital age.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main goal of UN Women’s Call for Proposals?

The main goal is to find a civil society organization to run a campaign against online violence and technology-facilitated abuse targeting women and girls in the Western Balkans.

Who is eligible to apply for this funding?

Civil society organizations (CSOs) with experience in gender equality, women’s rights, digital safety, and behavioral change campaigns, especially in the Western Balkans, are eligible.