Since 2007, CRISP has been actively involved in transforming conflict-torn societies into spaces where people can thrive and fulfil their potential. We have been inspiring and have inspired by the citizens who, despite challenging or even unbearable living and working conditions, distrust, corruption, and oppression, have chosen to make a positive impact within their communities and beyond. These individuals, usually referred to as civil society, have the potential to break long-standing structural violence and challenge cultural norms that justify force and crime.
CRISP’s overarching goal in the Eastern Partnership is to actively contribute to the democratization process in the EaP countries, while strengthening the role of civil society in driving positive change.
The Strategic Plan 2023-2028 outlines a series of innovative approaches to strengthen democracy, inclusivity, and resilience. With a differentiated approach to each region, CRISP is dedicated to supporting civil societies in the EaP countries through attention, advice, and meaningful cooperation.
Our strategic objectives are threefold:
- Strengthening Alignment and Cooperation between the European Union and the Eastern Partnership
- Empowering Civil Society
- Fostering Resilience
Our work in the EaP region is guided by a set of principles:
- Nothing about them without them: All interventions are implemented based on a needs assessment and in close cooperation with local partners.
- Owning the outcomes and responsibility: As activities lead to reaching the set goals yet they may also bring about undesired effects. We are conscious and responsible for both, and act according to the do-no-harm and conflict sensitivity principles.
- Strong partnerships for development: All projects have an end, but good partnerships last and make an impact, especially in decolonizing knowledge transfer. We learn from our partners as they learn from us.
- Sustainable approach: This approach involves designing projects with a focus on ownership transfer, empowering partners and participants to take charge of the desired changes after the funding period. We maintain strong connections on the ground, collaborating as equals, and providing ongoing support whenever needed, especially in times of crises.
- Intersectionality: We recognize the influence of gender, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and other overlapping aspects on peacebuilding and democratization efforts. Therefore, we design tailored solutions to address diverse challenges faced by individuals and communities in EaP region, as well as advocate for policies that are sensitive to these complexities.
- Condemning the Russian aggression and supporting democratic forces: Even in the face of Russia's aggression and destructive politics in the region, Ukraine, Georgia, and Moldova continue to uphold there democratic and progressive values, and much of this resilience can be attributed to the strength of the civil society. We admire these people and will continue supporting them on the ground, as well as strengthen their voice in the European Union.
Learn more about our Strategic Plan HERE
