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Horizon Europe Cluster 2 — Culture, Creativity and Inclusive Society

Horizon Democracy: Local Democracy in Lower-Income Countries

Funds research on how local democracy, public services and civic participation can strengthen resilient societies in lower-income countries.

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Democratic backsliding and attacks on human rights are putting pressure on communities around the world. This topic funds research into what helps democracy hold up at local level in low-income and low-middle income countries.

A project can study local elections, representative bodies, public services, civic participation, transparency, human rights and trust in government. It should look at the

Researching how local democratic practices work in low-income and low-middle income countries, and how local actors can make them more resilient. Projects gather evidence on local elections, representation, participation, transparency, human rights, decentralisation and the link between public-service delivery and trust in democratic institutions. The work should include fragile contexts where central governments have limited territorial control, involve local authorities and civil-society partners, and use participatory, multidisciplinary social-science methods. Findings should identify good practices and ways to transfer them to other contexts.

CycleiHow often this grant runs — e.g. annually, on a rolling basis, or a one-off call.Annual
Next deadlineiThe next date applications are due. Rolling means you can apply any time.23 Sept 2026
Decision timeiTypical time from the deadline to the funder's decision.22 weeks
Project durationiHow long the funded work is expected to run.
Award typeiThe form of funding — grant, equity, loan, tax credit, etc.Grant
Match fundingiThe share of project costs you must cover yourself. 0% = fully funded.0%
Funding pooliThe total budget available across all awards in this round.€12M

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Last verified: 25 Aug 2026Funder reference: HORIZON-CL2-2026-01-DEMOCRACY-02Source: ec.europa.eu