LIFE grants to NGOs: A crucial tool to safeguard fair, transparent support to civil society

Ahead of the European Parliament’s vote on Thursday 8 May, on whether to launch a committee of inquiry into the funding of NGOs, we reaffirm the vital role of civil society in EU democracy and policymaking. 

We welcome efforts by the European Court of Auditors (ECA) to promote transparency in EU funding. Crucially, the recent ECA report found no evidence that EU funds granted to NGOs were in violation of Union laws or values. As the ECA underlined, the Treaty on European Union recognises the importance of open, transparent, and continuous dialogue with civil society organisations, including NGOs. 

With a budget of just EUR 5.4 billion for 2021–2027 (0.3% of the overall EU long-term budget, including NextGenerationEU), LIFE has delivered exceptional results, funding thousands of projects that support environmental protection, nature conservation, climate action, and innovation, thereby improving lives across Europe.  

More than environmental impact, programmes like LIFE empower civil society and ensure that the voices of citizens – not just powerful, well-resourced interests – help shape EU policy. In 2025, the LIFE operating grants for environmental NGOs and civil society organisations amount to less than 15 MEUR or 0.007% of the EU Budget. Our work programmes are developed independently and submitted through public calls. As confirmed recently by the European Commission, NGOs are not instructed or required to lobby Members of the European Parliament. 

A vibrant, pluralistic democracy depends on civil society’s ability to engage decision-makers. IFOAM Organics Europe represents farmers, processors, retailers, and citizens from 34 European countries, advocating collectively for a sustainable food system based on organic principles. Like other NGOs, we play a legitimate and necessary role in ensuring that a diversity of citizen voices is heard in Brussels.