UN Women Funds Campaign to Combat Online Violence Against Women and Girls

UN Women has announced a significant funding opportunity for civil society organizations (CSOs) working to end online violence against women and girls in the Western Balkans. This initiative, part of the EU-funded “EU4 Gender Equality” program, aims to support a large-scale campaign focused on behavioral change and raising awareness about technology-facilitated abuse. The call for proposals seeks to empower organizations to address critical issues of gender equality and safety in digital spaces.

Understanding the UN Women Call for Proposals

This call for proposals is a key component of the “EU4 Gender Equality – Women’s Economic Empowerment and Ending Violence Against Women in the Western Balkans” program. UN Women is looking for a qualified CSO to act as a Responsible Party. This selected organization will be tasked with developing and implementing a comprehensive campaign. The campaign’s primary goal is to combat online and technology-facilitated violence against women and girls across the Western Balkans region.

Program Objectives and Focus Areas

The initiative has several core objectives designed to create a safer digital environment for women and girls. A major aim is to increase public understanding of the various forms of violence that occur online, including cyber harassment, digital stalking, and non-consensual image sharing. Beyond awareness, the program strongly emphasizes promoting behavioral change. This involves challenging harmful attitudes and stereotypes that contribute to gender-based violence and encouraging respectful online conduct and digital safety practices.

Furthermore, the program seeks to improve access to information about rights and support services. Women and girls affected by online violence need to know their legal rights and where to find assistance. The campaign will also support regional advocacy efforts, contributing to communication strategies for high-level forums focused on ending violence against women and girls.

Funding and Eligibility

Selected organizations can receive funding ranging from USD 180,000 to USD 200,000. This substantial grant is intended to support large-scale regional communication and advocacy activities. UN Women is specifically inviting Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) with proven experience in gender equality, women’s rights, digital safety, and behavioral change campaigns. Experience in regional program implementation, particularly within the Western Balkans, will be an advantage.

Geographic Scope and Application Details

The program’s geographic focus is the Western Balkans. Campaign activities and outreach efforts must address populations across this region. UN Women will host an online information session on June 1, 2026, at 12:00 CET, via Zoom, to guide potential applicants through the requirements and application process. Interested organizations must register in advance to receive joining instructions.

Submission Requirements and Deadline

Organizations must be prepared to accept all legal terms outlined in the Partner Agreement and undergo verification on the UN Partner Portal (UNPP). The deadline for proposal submission is June 12, 2026, at 12:00 CET. Late submissions will not be considered. For further inquiries, interested parties can contact Natalija Ostojic at [email protected].

The Importance of Addressing Online Violence

Technology-facilitated violence against women and girls is a rapidly growing global concern. This UN Women initiative highlights the urgent need for public education, digital safety awareness, and survivor-centered support. By funding these critical efforts, the program aims to foster regional cooperation and strengthen protections for women and girls in the digital age.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main goal of the UN Women campaign?

The main goal is to combat online and technology-facilitated violence against women and girls in the Western Balkans through a large-scale campaign focused on changing behavior and raising awareness.

Who is eligible to apply for this funding?

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