Last week the European 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 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. Some activities are open to EU Neighbourhood partner countries.
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 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.
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