The Commission launched the first call for proposals under the new European Solidarity Corps 2021-2027.
With a dedicated budget of €1.009 billion for 2021-2027, the new European Solidarity Corps programme will offer opportunities to at least 270,000 young people to help address societal and humanitarian challenges through volunteering or by setting up their own solidarity projects. For the first year of action, more than €138 million are available. The first annual work programme and the Programme Guide 2021 have also been published.
The call covers volunteering projects, volunteering teams in high priority areas, solidarity projects, quality label for solidarity volunteering activities and quality label for humanitarian aid volunteering. Deadlines for submission of applications are 28th May and 5th October. Applications for the quality label for solidarity volunteering can be submitted on a continuous basis. Deadline for applications for the quality label for humanitarian aid volunteering is 22 September.
The new European Solidarity Corps supports the political priorities of the European Union and engages organisations and young people in projects to address them. The programme promotes inclusion and diversity, aims to incorporate green practices in projects and encourages environmentally sustainable and responsible behaviour among participants and participating organisations. It supports the digital transition through projects and activities that boost digital skills and fosters digital literacy. The programme also promotes participation of young people in democratic processes and civic engagement. In addition, the new programme has the flexibility to add annual priorities addressing pressing issues. This year’s additional thematic area is health. The programme will mobilise young people in projects addressing health challenges, including the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, and recovery.
Official source: European Commission