On 22 January 2026, Tabačka Kulturfabrik in Košice brought together people for whom civil society is not just a concept, but part of their everyday work. Around 120 representatives of civil society organisations, donors, public institutions, and international partners gathered to mark the launch of the new programme period of the EEA Civil Society Fund Slovakia.
A key part of the event was a panel discussion exploring both the challenges and the opportunities facing civil society organisations in the years ahead. The discussion highlighted that meaningful change happens when expertise, practical experience, and a willingness to collaborate come together.
The event also featured a valuable international exchange of experience. Representatives of Frivillighet Norge shared Norwegian approaches to building trust, strengthening coordination, and increasing the resilience of civil society. Their insights opened the door to identifying transferable solutions and fostering long-term partnerships between organisations in Slovakia and the donor states.
The launch of the programme was more than a symbolic beginning of a new funding period. It was also a reminder that every meaningful systemic change is driven by people—their commitment, their work, and the trust they build together.
Photo: Róbert Németi
