5 Objectives for the period 2009–14

5.1 Norway’s contribution to reducing economic and social disparities

The EEA and Norway Grants are intended to reduce economic and social disparities in the EEA, and to alleviate the critical situation in many parts of Europe. The financial crisis is having widespread consequences for individuals and societies in the form of growing unemployment, reduced welfare and tough restructuring processes, and many young people are finding it especially hard to enter the labour force. The new austerity measures are primarily affecting vulnerable groups such as young people, minorities and those who already have few resources. Public welfare cuts are increasing social disparities and social marginalisation. This in turn is weakening public confidence in democratic institutions and creating a breeding ground for xenophobia and extremism. Further cuts in public spending and higher taxes may also weaken the prospects of fresh economic growth.

Education, research and innovation are crucial to economic growth. Europe 2020, the EU's growth strategy, has five target areas: employment, R&D, climate change/energy, education, and poverty/social exclusion. The EU cohesion policy is more and more viewed as an integral part of the Europe 2020 strategy, and in addition to reducing disparities between rich and poor regions, the policy attaches more importance to liberating the growth potential in all regions.

Photo: National Focal Point, Hungary

The EEA and Norway Grants are small compared with EU internal transfers and the beneficiary states’ own budgets. Poland is the largest recipient, and is receiving EUR 558.6 million in the period 2009–14. It is also receiving EUR 67 billion from the EU Structural Funds1 for 2007–13. In the budget proposal for the period 2014–20, the European Commission has proposed a purely nominal cut in the allocation to the EU coherence policy in relation to 2007–13. The proposal is under discussion in the EU, and clarification is not expected until 2013.

Given the size of the EEA and Norway Grants, it is not always possible to document a direct link between the support and developments at the national level in the beneficiary states. The priority sectors for the grant scheme for 2009–14 were selected on the basis of their relevance to social and economic development. This means that in order to receive support a programme must be consistent with EU objectives and in line with national plans and strategies for growth and social development. The Grants are also intended to support common European values and fundamental rights.

The lessons learnt in the previous Grants period were used as a background for determining the priority sectors for 2009–14. The recommendations put forward by the external evaluators and reviewers of the grant scheme were also taken into account when developing objectives and determining target groups and activities.

5.2 Objectives of the bilateral cooperation

In the agreements with the EU for 2009–14, the objective of strengthening bilateral relations was included and given equal importance to the objective of reducing social and economic disparities. A programme model has been developed for the current Grants period, which has laid the foundation for a more strategic and predictable cooperation between agencies and institutions in Norway and the beneficiary states. Under this model the cooperation between donors and beneficiaries has been made more relevant to national strategies than it was in the previous period. Programmes are being developed in areas of special interest to both parties. In the planning and implementation of the programmes, Norwegian authorities provide expertise, exchange best practices and advise on the choice of projects. At project level, steps have been taken to facilitate partnerships between Norwegian organisations, institutions, companies, the social partners, NGOs and other actors, and appropriate institutions in the beneficiary states.

The Government has based its choice of priority sectors on two main factors: areas that reflect important issues on the European and global agendas, and areas where Norway has interests and expertise. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has worked closely with the relevant ministries, civil society and the social partners in the selection of programme areas. The Council of Europe and other international organisations were also consulted in order to ensure that the priorities would be in line with international guidelines and recommendations. Cooperation in regional organisations where Norway is a member, such as the Council of Europe and the Council of the Baltic Sea States, is also strengthening our relations with the beneficiary states.

The forging of ties at programme and project level in a broad range of areas is expected to further strengthen cooperation between Norway and the beneficiary states after the individual programme or project has expired. This is in Norway’s interests. However, there are many factors influencing Norway’s contacts with other European countries, and it is sometimes difficult to document that the EEA and Norway Grants are directly responsible for expanding cooperation. The Government is assuming that this link does exist, and that the contacts, knowledge and trust built up through specific, time-limited programmes and projects will play an important role in future cooperation.

The EEA Agreement is a cornerstone of Norway’s cooperation with the EU. It is in Norway’s interest to make the agreement more widely known, and the EEA and Norway Grants are an effective tool for the embassies in the beneficiary states and other EU countries to achieve this end. The grant scheme also strengthens Norway’s reputation as a stable and reliable partner that is contributing to the achievement of common European objectives in the areas of environment and climate, research and innovation, competence-building, and promotion of fundamental democratic values. Press and communication activities for promoting the EEA and Norway Grants for the period 2009–14 are being intensified.

5.3 Negotiations with the beneficiary states

The completion of the negotiations on the agreements with the EU in summer 2010 was followed by negotiations with the individual beneficiary states on priorities for the funds. Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein negotiated MoUs with the 15 beneficiary states on the programme areas for allocations under the EEA Grants. In parallel with this process, Norway negotiated agreements on the use of the Norway Grants. The negotiations began in autumn 2010 and ended in 2011. In some of the countries they were delayed by a change of government or the financial crisis. Co-financing of the programmes was made a requirement, and this was also a source of delay in some countries.

The donor states’ assessment of the cooperation potential and the beneficiary states’ own priorities formed the starting point for the negotiations. The considerable differences between the beneficiary states are reflected in their priorities. Some of the countries enthusiastically welcomed the opportunity to cooperate with Norwegian agencies and institutions, while others attached more importance to their own resources and national institutions. The support is being divided between 144 programmes altogether. So far, in 78 of the programmes at least one Norwegian organisation or institution has been appointed as donor programme partner.

* The sector human and social development covers children and young people at risk, local and regional development, public health care, gender equality, asylum and migration, and cross-border cooperation.

** Administration in the beneficiary states includes funding allocated for the completion of certain projects from the period 2004–09.

Source Financial Mechanism Office

In line with the recommendations in the evaluations, Norway’s intention was that the efforts should in principle be concentrated on fewer areas in each country. At the same time Norway wished to give priority to areas with the greatest potential for bilateral cooperation. The beneficiary states, on the other hand, wished to include many different sectors. The results of the negotiations therefore struck a balance between these two considerations.

Figure 5.2 shows the results of the negotiations by sector. Support for climate and environment is much greater than in the period 2004–09, and this is now the largest sector. Support for cultural heritage conservation has been reduced.

5.4 Objectives for the priority sectors

The agreements with the EU specify the priority sectors for the Grants. In order to facilitate performance management, the donor states have specified programme areas, together with the expected outcomes for each sector.2

5.4.1 Environmental protection and management

The greatest global environmental challenges are climate change, loss of biodiversity and the dispersal of substances that are persistent, bioaccumulative and toxic. These processes are impairing people’s quality of life and preventing sustainable development. The EU is an important partner in the global efforts to improve the environment. Under the EEA Agreement much of the relevant environmental legislation is common to both Norway and the beneficiary states, and the EEA and Norway Grants are intended to help the beneficiary states implement EU environmental legislation. Norway and these countries have a strong common interest in protecting the environment, especially the countries that are part of our neighbouring area, such as Poland and the Baltic states. Many of the European environmental problems are transboundary, and can only be addressed by cross-border cooperation. In each beneficiary state at least 30 % of the funds under the EEA and Norway Grants will be spent on environmental protection, climate change measures and renewable energy. Examples of appropriate programme areas are management of marine and water resources, biodiversity conservation, environmental planning, monitoring and supervision, and management of chemicals and hazardous waste.

Sound management of marine and water resources requires an integrated approach that takes biodiversity, climate change and pollution into account. The EU Strategy for the Baltic Sea Region of 2009 is a good example of this type of approach. In this connection it is important that the beneficiary states should implement the EU Water Framework Directive. The objectives of the programmes supported by the grant scheme include improving environmental monitoring and infrastructure, and strengthening the capacity for analysis.

Biodiversity conservation is a vital factor in ensuring sustainable development, and both donor and beneficiary states are bound by the UN Convention on Biological Diversity. Measures for biodiversity conservation include establishing or strengthening systems for monitoring protected areas, protecting ecosystems from invasive alien species, and taking biodiversity considerations into account in policy development and legislation. Experience from 2004–09 has also shown the necessity for supporting awareness-raising and education.

Sound environmental monitoring, control and analysis depend on good, accurate information. Many of the EU strategies for resource management require countries to have up-to-date information in the field. However, there are great variations between the EU countries in the implementation of environmental measures, for example in their control of industrial emissions. One of the objectives of the EEA and Norway Grants is to promote compliance with environmental legislation, and this makes it necessary to strengthen the public administration and raise awareness in the industrial sector and in civil society.

The Norwegian authorities in this field are the Climate and Pollution Agency and the Directorate for Nature Management. They provide advice and help to ensure a high standard of quality in programmes and individual projects. The Norwegian Mapping Authority also provides expertise.

5.4.2 Climate change and renewable energy

A proactive climate policy calls for greater energy efficiency, greater use of renewable energy and cuts in greenhouse gas emissions. It is also important to take climate change into account in social planning. The EEA and Norway Grants are intended to help finance energy efficiency measures, increase the use of renewable energy and reduce illegal discharges from ships. Research and technology development are an essential element in these programmes.

Photo: Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Energy efficiency is one of the most cost-effective ways of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving air quality. Programmes have been set up to improve energy efficiency in buildings, manufacturing industries and the transport sector. Other important goals are to raise awareness about the problems and to improve the capacity and knowledge of the public authorities to enable them to implement measures.

Shipping is responsible for substantial releases of greenhouse gases and other pollutants, and in this area there is a large potential for energy efficiency and use of other types of fuel such as liquid natural gas (LNG). Other objectives are to improve maritime technology and to strengthen the capacity of the authorities to make policy changes. The International Maritime Organisation (IMO) could be a useful partner under this programme.

Increasing the production of renewable energy stimulates employment and technology development. However, the beneficiary states are currently using only a small part of their potential. This programme area includes biomass, wind and solar power, hydropower, wave power and geothermal energy. The objective is to boost production and use of renewable energy. Greater awareness and better information on forward-looking energy solutions need to be fostered. This programme is suitable for the involvement of small and medium-sized enterprises.

There is increasing awareness of the importance of taking climate change into account in social planning. This requires cooperation between many different sectors and administrative levels. Improving information exchange systems, strengthening the capacity for analysis, and raising awareness in this field are all important objectives for the EEA and Norway Grants.

The climate change and renewable energy programmes cover many areas of expertise, and there are many suitable Norwegian programme partners. The Norwegian Climate and Pollution Agency is a partner in several programmes, while Enova, the Norwegian Water Resources and Energy Directorate and Innovation Norway are involved in energy efficiency and renewable energy programmes. The Norwegian Directorate for Civil Protection and Emergency Planning and the Directorate for Nature Management are partners in climate change adaptation programmes. The Research Council of Norway promotes cooperation on research and technology development in the field, and the Norwegian Maritime Directorate is partnering a project in the maritime sector.

5.4.3 Carbon capture and storage

Joint international action is important in this area, and the EEA and Norway Grants are intended to support the EU’s climate and energy policy. This includes the development of demonstration facilities for carbon capture and storage together with measures for safe storage. Twenty-three per cent, or EUR 184 million, of the Norway Grants has been allocated to carbon capture and storage. Programmes to this end have been established in Poland, Romania and the Czech Republic, and Gassnova advises on the programmes in Poland and Romania. In Poland the Norway Grants are providing some of the funding for a full-scale facility at the Belchatów coal-fired power station. In the Czech Republic the funds are being used for research on carbon capture and storage.

5.4.4 Green industry innovation

Sustainable development depends on technological development and a competitive business sector that takes responsibility for the environment. Through the EEA and Norway Grants, Norway is promoting the development and commercialisation of new environmental technology and plays a part in reducing releases of pollutants to air and water. Considerable efforts will be made to involve Norwegian project partners. Innovation Norway has broad experience of business development, and will assist the beneficiary states in developing good programmes as well as facilitating partnerships with Norwegian companies. A total amount of almost EUR 100 million has been allocated to programmes in seven beneficiary states.

5.4.5 Health

A robust, effective health care system is essential for improving and maintaining the health of a population, which in turn influences a country’s economic potential. Public health services should ensure easy access and identify factors that affect public health. The existence of socioeconomic health disparities is a major challenge, and the EEA and Norway Grants are supporting the efforts of the beneficiary states to improve their health services and their public health system. The Grants enable these countries to develop national strategies for effective disease prevention, strengthen public health monitoring and preparedness, and develop national health registers and health information systems.

The final evaluation of the work in the health sector in the period 2004–09 concluded that partnerships were especially valuable for complex projects in areas where Norway has specialised expertise. This was a determining factor when the Directorate for Health and Social Affairs and the Institute of Public Health were chosen as partners for several of the beneficiary states. Further steps are needed to make these countries aware of Norway’s areas of expertise.

5.4.6 Gender equality

Women’s participation in the labour force is an important factor in economic growth, but in many of the beneficiary states combining work with family life is difficult. The EEA and Norway Grants are intended to raise awareness of the issues, increase the spread of knowledge and exchange of experiences, and improve capacity in organisations and networks. The long-term objectives are to reduce income disparities between men and women, increase the number of women on company boards and improve the work–life balance. The Norwegian Ministry of Children, Equality and Social Inclusion, the Equality and Anti-discrimination Ombudsman, and the Association of Local and Regional Authorities are all donor programme partners.

5.4.7 Asylum and migration

All the EU and EEA/EFTA countries are part of the Dublin cooperation, which has established clear criteria for which country is responsible for examining a particular asylum application. Norway considers it important that asylum applications are processed in accordance with the Geneva Declaration. Thus asylum-seekers are not returned to their country of origin if this means that their life or freedom would be threatened, regardless of which country is responsible for examining the application. In 2009, European countries received 287 000 applications for asylum, although the number of applications varies considerably from state to state. Greece is a special case among the Grants recipients, and the programme entitled Institutional Framework in the Asylum and Migration Sector has been specially developed to strengthen the authorities’ capacity to deal with the situation in Greece. Under the programme the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration cooperates with the Greek authorities on improving administration of the asylum system and other efforts in this area. The programme also involves cooperation with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR). The funds provided by the grant scheme are a supplement to the EU funding in Greece.

5.4.8 Vulnerable groups of children and young people

Many children and young people in Europe live under difficult conditions. They lack access to adequate health care and education, and some are victims of child labour, sexual abuse, disease and violence. The EEA and Norway Grants are being used for projects aimed at implementing international conventions governing the rights of children and young people and improving the quality and accessibility of health and care services and the situation of young offenders.

The Council of Europe provides advice based on its expertise in the field of minority rights. The Norwegian Ministry of Children, Equality and Social Inclusion is partnering a project to reform and improve child welfare service in the Czech Republic.

5.4.9 Local and regional development

One of the objectives of the EU cohesion policy is to develop a more inclusive economy in Europe. Cooperation between towns and rural districts in economically disadvantaged areas can promote growth. The EEA and Norway Grants are a supplement to these efforts.

The objectives are to improve the standard of public services, build competence among public employees and strengthen cooperation between public institutions. The programmes have donor partners with expertise in the various fields: Innovation Norway for business development in economically disadvantaged areas, the Norwegian Association of Local and Regional Authorities in the field of local and regional administration, and the Council of Europe for programmes targeted at minorities.

Particular attention will be paid to the Roma and other vulnerable groups. These groups often have lower labour market participation, lower incomes, higher school dropout rates and a higher rate of criminal activities than the rest of the population. The grant scheme is intended to promote social inclusion and economic growth by funding projects for these groups. Examples of projects are providing educational opportunities, job creation, modernising and improving the accessibility of public services, promoting greater participation in public decision-making processes and social inclusion.

5.4.10 Cross-border cooperation

Regions on both sides of the EU external border have many challenges in common, such as pollution, communicative diseases and organised crime. Combating such problems requires cooperation across national borders, for example through the exchange of information and joint action plans. Cooperation between NGOs on both sides of a border can also generate stronger engagement for democratic development in the EU’s neighbouring countries. According to the review of the cross-border cooperation funding in 2004–09,3 there has been a lack of clear, specific, sectoral objectives, and it was recommended that future funding should go to comprehensive programmes rather than individual projects. The review also recommended drawing on Norway’s experience of cross-border cooperation with Russia, and this recommendation has been followed. The Slovak Republic and Ukraine are drawing on the experience of the Norwegian Barents Secretariat for their cross-border cooperation, and the Secretariat will also be assisting Bulgaria.

5.4.11 Civil society

A viable democracy depends on a strong civil society. NGOs play a vital role by stimulating engagement, participating in policy development and raising awareness about important social issues. Norway considers it very important that the engagement generated during the previous Grants period is kept up. The evaluation of the NGO funds4 confirmed that the funds had enhanced competence among NGOs. For the period 2009–14 it has been agreed with the EU that at least 10 % of the EEA Grants should be allocated to NGO funds. The funds are intended to promote a viable democratic system and respect for fundamental rights and for vulnerable groups such as the Roma. Special attention is being paid to promoting tolerance and to the important role of NGOs in fighting discrimination and working for social and cultural inclusion of vulnerable groups. Support is given to studies and networking, and to combating racism and hate speech among young people. Other priority projects are youth work, social inclusion and environmental movements. The Norwegian Helsinki Committee will continue to involve Norwegian NGOs as project partners.

5.4.12 Research and scholarships

Research is crucial for further social and economic development in Europe. Boosting research cooperation is one of the objectives of the EU’s Seventh Framework Programme for Research and Technological Development, in which Norway participates. Research funds have been set up under the EEA and Norway Grants in six countries in order to increase research capacity and the use of research results through partnerships with Norwegian institutions. The priority areas are negotiated separately with each country. The academic research evaluation for 2004–095 concluded that the results of the cooperation were generally successful, but criticised the project administration by the beneficiary states and the lack of knowledge among the relevant authorities about Norwegian research expertise and capacity. Steps have been taken in the current period to ensure that international accounting and reporting procedures are followed. The Research Council of Norway provides information on areas where Norway has expertise, and advice to Norwegian researchers who wish to cooperate with their counterparts in beneficiary states.

The objectives of the scholarship programme are to facilitate student and teacher mobility between the beneficiary states and Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein, and to intensify institutional cooperation between Norway and the beneficiary states in the sphere of higher education. The Norwegian Centre for International Cooperation in Education facilitates cooperation between educational institutions in Norway and the beneficiary states.

5.4.13 Cultural heritage and cultural exchanges

Culture is an important factor in socio-economic development. Conservation and spreading knowledge about the cultural heritage and its diversity also have a strong positive effect on the position of minorities in society. The EU's growth strategy emphasises the importance of culture for the tourist industry. The EEA and Norway Grants are intended to preserve and document the cultural heritage and make it available to the public. Another aim is to promote the sustainability of local communities by revitalising the natural and cultural heritage. The grant scheme puts considerable emphasis on the cultural heritage of minorities. The Norwegian Directorate for Cultural Heritage was a partner in several projects in 2004–09 and will continue its engagement in the current period.

Cultural diversity strengthens democratic values in Europe, and the grant scheme funds cultural exchanges. The Arts Council Norway is responsible for making Norwegian actors aware of the cultural exchange programmes and helping the beneficiary states find suitable partners in Norway.

5.4.14 The Fund for the Promotion of Decent Work and Tripartite Dialogue

Unemployment in Europe is high, and under the EEA and Norway Grants greater priority is being given to the problems faced by the business sector and the labour market.

In the negotiations with the EU on the EEA and Norway Grants for 2009–14, Norway gave high priority to the establishment of the Fund for Promoting Decent Work and Tripartite Dialogue. One per cent of the Norway Grants is allocated to the Fund. It was set up in close cooperation with the social partners in Norway and is operated by Innovation Norway. The Fund supports measures such as structures for social dialogue, HSE, anti-discrimination, and gender equality in the workplace. Efforts are made to facilitate partnerships with the social partners in Norway, but this is not a requirement for receiving funding.

The Fund for Decent Work and Tripartite Dialogue is based on experience from the seed money scheme for strengthening social dialogue in central European countries that has been made available to the social partners in Norway since 2008. The Norwegian social partners are now part of the reference group for the Fund, which advises on its technical organisation. Contact has also been established with the ILO Regional Office in Budapest for advice and quality assurance of the projects. The Regional Office has specialised expertise on tripartite cooperation, decent work and social dialogue in Central Europe. The projects are selected on the basis of a dialogue with the National Focal Point in each beneficiary state.

5.4.15 Justice

The Government intends to cooperate more closely with the beneficiary states on justice policy. The countries under the Schengen cooperation form a free-travel area with no border controls, which simplifies travel for their citizens. Unfortunately it also makes it easier for criminals to cross borders. The grant scheme supports programmes for improving prison conditions, combating organised crime and improving the efficiency of the judicial system. Combating domestic violence is also a priority. The review of the support for Schengen-related measures in 2004–09 recommended that the donors should set clearer priorities that would allow for the development of projects with clear and relevant objectives. The beneficiary states were criticised for not including the funding in their overall strategies. The grant scheme for 2009–14 is following this up.

Violence against women is a challenge for all European countries and is on the EU’s agenda. The Council of Europe has estimated that 45 % of all women in Europe have at some point been exposed to sex-based violence, and that a further 80 000 or so women a year are victims of human trafficking. In recent years the UN, the Council of Europe and the EU have all taken steps to combat human trafficking and violence against women. The EEA and Norway Grants support these initiatives in the form of a programme whose objective is to prevent violence and provide assistance to trafficking victims.

The fight against organised crime has high priority in all the beneficiary states. All the EEA countries have signed the Council of Europe Convention on Action against Trafficking in Human Beings, and the objective of the grant scheme is to protect the security of the individual. Police cooperation is being strengthened, the capacity for combating international and organised crime is being increased and support is being provided for trafficking victims.

Fair judicial proceedings are an essential part of a democracy and a constitutional state, and independent, effective courts are vital for social and economic development. The objective of the EEA and Norway Grants in this sector is to improve the accessibility of the judiciary and the effectiveness of the courts. Alternative dispute resolution mechanisms will also be considered.

The number of prison inmates is increasing in many of the beneficiary states. Poor prison conditions increase the risk of substance abuse and the spread of infectious diseases. Funding from the grant scheme is intended to promote the use of non-custodial sanctions and assistance for vulnerable groups of prisoners.

The Norwegian Police Directorate, the Norwegian Courts Administration, the Correctional Services and the Directorate for Health and Social Affairs are donor programme partners, and the Council of Europe provides assistance for several of the programmes.

5.5 Special concerns

All the measures funded by the EEA and Norway Grants are required to be based on the principles of good governance, sustainable development and gender equality. In addition the MoUs with the beneficiary states lay down guidelines and specify special concerns for individual programmes or for the grant scheme as a whole. Inclusion of minorities is an example of a special concern.

In many countries the financial crisis in Europe has resulted in major cuts in the public sector and high unemployment. Large population groups are affected, and young people are finding it especially hard to enter the labour force. Expectations of economic growth and better times are being replaced by disillusionment and a sense of marginalisation. The youngest democracies in the EU have been hard hit by these problems, and in some of them the problems have provided a breeding ground for pessimism and for more authoritarian and less tolerant attitudes. Racism and nationalism are spreading fear among minorities and vulnerable groups.

Norway considers it important to improve the situation of the Roma. Bulgaria, Greece, Romania, the Slovak Republic, the Czech Republic and Hungary have agreed to adopt at least one programme that takes special account of this group. In Romania 10% of the allocation to relevant programmes and in Bulgaria 10% of the total allocation should benefit the Roma. Combating discrimination and hate speech is also a priority.

Programmes have been started for domestic violence prevention in seven beneficiary states, and combating domestic violence can be mainstreamed into programmes for civil society and gender equality. Roma and migrant women are target groups for several programmes. A total of EUR 22 million has been allocated to programmes for combating domestic violence.

Programmes promoting gender equality will be established in six of the beneficiary states, and women and gender equality are mainstreamed into programmes for civil society, research, health, and domestic violence prevention in several beneficiary states. A total of EUR 24 million has been allocated to gender equality programmes.

5.5.1 Council of Europe

In order to intensify the efforts for human rights, democratisation and the judicial system that are supported under the EEA and Norway Grants, the Council of Europe is acting as adviser for several of the programmes. The Council sets international standards, for example through more than 200 international agreements, and provides examples of best practices. The Council’s competence and knowledge are a resource for both donor and beneficiary states. It will act as adviser for 18 programmes in nine of the beneficiary states – Bulgaria, Romania, Poland, Hungary, the Czech Republic, the Slovak Republic, Latvia, Malta and Cyprus. The Council’s expertise is particularly important in programmes for vulnerable groups like the Roma and trafficking and domestic violence victims. The Council also advises on the efforts to increase the effectiveness of the judicial system and improve conditions for serving sentences. The importance of teaching history in multicultural communities is another area where the Council has special expertise, and history teaching is included in several of the programmes. As part of the cooperation with the Council, annual conferences on relevant topics are planned. Thus in autumn 2012 a conference will be held on the subject of young people, hate speech and social media.

5.6 Programmes in the individual beneficiary states

5.6.1 Estonia

Estonia has been receiving funding under the EEA and Norway Grants since it joined the EU and the EEA in 2004. The country’s per capita GDP was 35 % lower than the EU average in 2010, and it is number 34 on the United Nations Human Development Index. Estonia is receiving EUR 48.6 million under the grant scheme for 2009–14, which is the largest per capita allocation.

Since there are a good number of Norwegian companies established in Estonia, it was decided to establish a green industry innovation programme in which Innovation Norway is the donor programme partner.

A programme is being started to improve the environment of the Baltic Sea and Estonia’s inland waters, in which the Climate and Pollution Agency is the Norwegian partner. The possibilities for increased use of liquid natural gas in shipping is being investigated.

Children and young people at risk have been an important theme in Norway’s cooperation with the Baltic countries for many years. The Association of Local and Regional Authorities is the Norwegian programme partner in this area.

Estonia faces considerable challenges in the health sector. For example the rapid spread of HIV could develop into a heavy social and political burden. Funding under the grant scheme is being allocated to programmes dealing with these challenges and with children’s health.

Measures to promote gender equality are being funded under programmes on various themes, such as equality at work and combating domestic violence and human trafficking. The Ministry of Children, Equality and Social Inclusion is the Norwegian partner in a programme for reducing the wage gap between men and women and improving the work–life balance.

The support for renovation and adaptation of old manor houses for use as schools and community centres will be continued. The Norwegian Directorate for Cultural Heritage is a programme partner.

The research programme and the scholarship programme are receiving support, with the Research Council of Norway as the Norwegian programme partner. The NGO fund is being used to strengthen civil society.

5.6.2 Latvia

Latvia has been receiving funding under the EEA and Norway Grants since it joined the EU and the EEA in 2004. The country’s per capita GDP was 48 % lower than the EU average in 2010, and it is number 43 on the United Nations Human Development Index. Latvia is receiving EUR 73 million under the grant scheme for 2009–14, which is the next largest per capita allocation.

Latvia has a larger number of prisoners relative to population size than any other EU country. The country faces serious problems. Norway and Latvia have been cooperating on prison reform for many years, and in the current period priority will be given to rehabilitation, increasing the use of non-custodial sanctions and reducing the use of administrative punishments. The infrastructure will be upgraded and staff will receive training. Both the Norwegian Correctional Services and the Council of Europe are programme partners and will share experience and expertise.

A programme is being set up to assist Latvia in developing the basis for its climate policy, including adaptation to climate change. The Norwegian Climate and Pollution Agency and the Norwegian Directorate for Civil Protection and Emergency Planning are programme partners.

The Norwegian Association of Local and Regional Authorities is a programme partner in cooperation on capacity-building in the public sector, with particular focus on land use planning and public service provision. A number of Norwegian institutions are sharing their experience in these areas.

Latvia manages a substantial part of Europe’s legacy of art nouveau architecture. Documentation and information activities and conservation of historical wood architecture are receiving funding. Cultural exchanges with Norway are also funded.

Funds are being allocated to Norwegian–Latvian research cooperation in the social sciences and humanities, and for scholarships. The programme partner is the Research Council of Norway.

Innovation Norway is participating in a green industry innovation programme and facilitates partnerships between the Norwegian and Latvian business sectors.

Support for NGOs has been almost doubled compared with the previous grant period. The financial crisis hit Latvia particularly hard, and the public welfare cuts have affected a large part of the population. Half of the NGO fund is therefore being allocated to social welfare and other basic services, especially those for vulnerable children and young people. Latvia has a large Russian-speaking minority, and the NGO fund is providing support for multicultural dialogue and integration.

5.6.3 Lithuania

Lithuania has been receiving funding under the EEA and Norway Grants since it joined the EU and the EEA in 2004. The country’s per capita GDP was 42 % lower than the EU average in 2010, and it is number 40 on the United Nations Human Development Index. Lithuania is receiving EUR 84 million under the grant scheme for 2009–14.

Crime prevention is a challenge in both Norway and Lithuania. The EEA and Norway Grants focus on improving the prison and judicial systems, combating international organised crime, and capacity-building and cooperation in the judicial system. The correctional services are also a priority. The Norwegian Courts Administration and the Norwegian Correctional Services are programme partners.

There is a large volume of maritime traffic in the Baltic SEA, and environmental problems are growing. This issue will be addressed in a programme for the marine areas. Funds are also being allocated for halting the loss of biodiversity. The Norwegian Directorate for Nature Management is programme partner, and the Norwegian Climate and Pollution Agency will assist Lithuania in improving its greenhouse gas inventory.

The Norwegian business sector has shown an interest in Lithuania, and cooperation is being facilitated through a green industry innovation programme. Innovation Norway is the programme partner.

Although health indicators in Lithuania have shown improvements, life expectancy is still below the EU average. The Lithuanian health-care system is in need of reform, and the new health programme has a focus on improving management and monitoring in the health sector and health services for young people.

Cultural support is focused on wood architecture. Funds are also allocated for cultural exchanges with Norway, and the scholarship fund will be continued in the current period.

5.6.4 Poland

Poland has been receiving funding under the EEA and Norway Grants since it joined the EU and the EEA in 2004. The country’s per capita GDP was 38 % lower than the EU average in 2010, and it is number 39 on the United Nations Human Development Index. Poland is receiving EUR 578.1 million under the grant scheme for 2009–14, making it the largest recipient of the Grants.

Environmental and energy cooperation is an important element in Norway’s relations with Poland, and it has been agreed that EUR 137 million is to be used to co-finance a full-scale carbon capture and storage facility. The facility will be mainly financed by the EU, with technical cooperation with Gassnova. The project is under development.

Poland’s economy is much more energy-intensive than that of most other European countries, and access to renewable energy sources is limited. The EEA and Norway Grants will therefore be used to improve energy efficiency in public buildings. Funds are also being allocated to an environmental monitoring and control programme in which the Climate and Pollution Agency and the Mapping Authority are Norwegian partners. Biodiversity conservation is also being funded.

Poland has the longest external border of all the Schengen countries, which means that international police cooperation and combating cross-border crime are important areas of cooperation. The EEA and Norway Grants will be used to strengthen the judicial system, increase the use of non-custodial sanctions and improve education and training among prison staff and inmates. Allocations are also given to the efforts to combat domestic and gender-based violence.

The health services are being made more accessible and the quality improved. The objective is to reduce social disparities. Particular priority is given to children, reproductive health, the elderly and lifestyle diseases. The Directorate for Health and Social Affairs is the Norwegian programme partner.

Research cooperation is a separate programme. The Research Council of Norway will facilitate contact between Norwegian and Polish research communities, and the Association of Local and Regional Authorities is a partner in a project for strengthening inter-municipal cooperation.

Support for cultural heritage conservation will be continued in the current period, including support for activities to promote cultural diversity. EUR 37 million will be allocated to the NGO fund, which means that the grant scheme will be making a visible contribution to civil society in 2009–14 as well as in the previous period. Support for student exchanges will be continued.

5.6.5 The Czech Republic

The Czech Republic has been receiving funding under the EEA and Norway Grants since it joined the EU and the EEA in 2004. The country’s per capita GDP was 20 % lower than the EU average in 2010, and it is number 27 on the United Nations Human Development Index. The Czech Republic is receiving EUR 131.8 million under the grant scheme for 2009–14.

Research cooperation between Norway and the Czech Republic will be intensified through a bilateral research programme. The Research Council of Norway will facilitate contact between Norwegian and Czech research communities.

A health programme with a focus on mental health is being established in cooperation with the Norwegian Institute of Public Health. The grant scheme will also be used to improve the care services for vulnerable children and young people, including those from minority groups. In the justice sector, support is being given to the fight against international organised crime. The capacity of the judicial system is also being improved, with the Council of Europe as programme partner. A programme has been established to promote gender equality in working life and reduce domestic violence. Support is also being given to local and regional development, with an emphasis on social inclusion.

Biodiversity conservation, environmental monitoring and adaptation to climate change are receiving support, and the Directorate for Nature Management is a programme partner. A specific programme will be set up for investigating whether there are suitable areas in the Czech Republic for carbon storage.

Cultural heritage conservation and revitalisation is being continued in 2009–14, and the Directorate for Cultural Heritage is a partner in some of the projects. A small fund for cultural exchanges with Norway has been set up, in which the Arts Council Norway is a programme partner. Researcher and student exchanges are being continued in the current period. An NGO fund has been established for civil society.

5.6.6 The Slovak Republic

The Slovak Republic has been receiving funding under the EEA and Norway Grants since it joined the EU and the EEA in 2004. The country’s per capita GDP was 26 % lower than the EU average in 2010, and it is number 35 on the United Nations Human Development Index. The Slovak Republic is receiving EUR 80.8 million under the grant scheme for 2009–14.

Photo: NGO fund, Slovak Republic

The Slovak Republic has shown considerable interest in closer cooperation with Norway in the business sector, and the green industry innovation programme is the largest programme under the grant scheme. Innovation Norway is a partner and is facilitating contact between the two countries’ business sectors.

Climate change is making the Slovak Republic more vulnerable to flooding. The Norwegian Water Resources and Energy Directorate and the Norwegian Directorate for Civil Protection and Emergency Planning are partners in flood protection and management efforts.

The Directorate for Health and Social Affairs and the Council of Europe are participating in a programme to combat domestic violence and assist victims.

Substantial support is being given to cross-border contact and cooperation with Ukraine. The Barents Secretariat in Norway is participating in these activities and sharing its experience of cross-border cooperation with Russia.

The Council of Europe is also participating in a programme for promoting social inclusion, with particular focus on the Roma.

Funding has been allocated for protecting and revitalising the cultural heritage, with the Directorate for Cultural Heritage as the Norwegian programme partner. A fund has been set up for promoting diversity in culture and the arts. Support for NGOs has been increased. The scholarship fund for students and educators will be continued.

5.6.7 Hungary

Hungary has been receiving funding under the EEA and Norway Grants since it joined the EU and the EEA in 2004. The country’s per capita GDP was 36 % lower than the EU average in 2010, and it is number 38 on the United Nations Human Development Index. The country is facing major economic and political challenges. Hungary is receiving EUR 153.3 million under the grant scheme for 2009–14.

Norway considers green industry innovation, research and support for civil society to be particularly important in Hungary. Innovation Norway is a partner in the green industry innovation programme and facilitates cooperation between the Norwegian and Hungarian business sectors. Broad research cooperation between Norway and Hungary was established under the grant scheme for 2004–09, and this support has been more than doubled in the current period. Funding is given to research projects in the fields of environment, health, the social sciences and the humanities, and the Research Council of Norway is the programme partner.

The grant scheme is also being used to promote energy efficiency, renewable energy use and adaptation to climate change. The Norwegian Directorate for Civil Protection and Emergency Planning is a partner in the climate change adaptation programme.

Health-related measures and measures for children and young people at risk are also being funded, and the Council of Europe is involved in the latter programme. There will be a particular focus on vulnerable groups such as the Roma. Funding under the grant scheme is being used to reduce disparities, prevent lifestyle diseases and improve the quality of and access to health services, with a particular focus on mental health. The Norwegian partner is the Institute of Public Health.

The Directorate for Cultural Heritage is the Norwegian partner in the programme for cultural heritage conservation. The scholarship programme has been expanded and support for civil society has been increased.

5.6.8 Slovenia

Slovenia has been receiving funding under the EEA and Norway Grants since it joined the EU and the EEA in 2004. The country’s per capita GDP was 14 % lower than the EU average in 2010, and it is number 21 on the United Nations Human Development Index, making it the highest ranking of the beneficiary states. Slovenia is receiving EUR 26.9 million under the grant scheme for 2009–14.

Health is a priority area in the cooperation with Slovenia. Funds have been allocated to a programme to reduce health disparities, prevent lifestyle diseases and improve the mental health service. The Institute of Public Health is the Norwegian programme partner. In addition to health, support is being given to work for gender equality.

Support for cultural heritage conservation and revitalisation is being continued, with a focus on restoring and opening historic monuments and sites to the public. This will promote local and regional development. In the area of environment, support is going to biodiversity conservation. The mapping authorities in Norway, Iceland and Slovenia are cooperating on an environmental monitoring project. The NGO fund supports measures to meet the needs of children and young people, and vulnerable groups such as the Roma. A scholarship fund has been established.

5.6.9 Romania

Romania has been receiving funding under the EEA and Norway Grants since it joined the EU and the EEA in 2007. The country’s per capita GDP was 55 % lower than the EU average in 2010. It is number 50 on the United Nations Human Development Index, making it the highest-ranking of the beneficiary states. Romania is receiving EUR 306 million under the grant scheme for 2009–14, making it the second largest recipient.

Romania is facing considerable challenges in the justice sector, and a broad-based effort is being made in this area. Priority is being given to combating domestic violence and organised crime, strengthening the courts administration, and improving the judicial system and the correctional services. The Police Directorate, the Courts Administration and the Correctional Services are the Norwegian partners, and the Council of Europe participates.

Based on the positive experiences in the 2007–09 period, and in order to stimulate employment and economic growth, Innovation Norway will administer a programme for green industry innovation and a programme in the maritime sector. Cooperation with Norwegian partners is expected.

The largest single programme, for which EUR 40 million has been allocated, is concerned with carbon capture and storage, and Gassnova is the Norwegian partner. The Climate and Pollution Agency, the Directorate for Nature Management, the Water Resources and Energy Directorate and the Association of Local and Regional Authorities, together with the Norwegian and Icelandic mapping authorities, are donor partners in various environmental programmes, including a large biodiversity conservation programme. The Radiation Protection Authority will continue to be the Norwegian partner in a programme on nuclear safety.

Romania has a rich cultural heritage, and the Directorate for Cultural Heritage and the Arts Council Norway are programme partners in this sector. Research cooperation with Romania has increased over the last few years, and is being strengthened through a new research programme in which the Research Council of Norway is involved. The scholarship fund will also be continued. The health sector in Romania is in deep crisis, and the EEA and Norway Grants are being used to fund measures in the health services. Support for civil society will also be increased substantially in the current period.

Ten per cent of the allocations to relevant programmes are set aside for improving the situation of the Roma. The Council of Europe supplies expertise in this connection.

5.6.10 Bulgaria

Bulgaria has been receiving funding under the EEA and Norway Grants since it joined the EU and the EEA in 2007. The country’s per capita GDP was 56 % lower than the EU average in 2010, making it the poorest country in the EU, and it is number 55 on the United Nations Human Development Index. Bulgaria is receiving EUR 126.6 million under the grant scheme for 2009–14, making it the fifth largest recipient.

In the MoU with Bulgaria, the justice sector was defined as a priority sector, and the Council of Europe is the donor programme partner. The focus is on prison reform, improving the courts system and combating domestic violence. Another partner is the Police Directorate, which participates, with support from the Council of Europe, in the cooperation on combating international organised crime, including human trafficking.

Environmental and energy measures have received the largest allocation. Innovation Norway is responsible for the green industry innovation programme, and the Climate and Pollution Agency, the Water Resources and Energy Directorate and the Directorate for Nature Management are Norwegian partners in programmes promoting energy efficiency, water resources management and halting the loss of biodiversity.

A programme for capacity-building in the public sector is being developed with the Association of Local and Regional Authorities as Norwegian programme partner. The programme includes cooperation and exchange of knowledge with Norwegian institutions and local authorities. The Barents Secretariat is participating in a project for cross-border cooperation.

Funds have also been allocated to measures in the health and cultural heritage sectors. Ten per cent of the EEA and Norway Grants in Bulgaria is intended to be used to improve the situation of the Roma. Support for civil society and the scholarship fund will be continued in the current period.

5.6.11 Portugal

Portugal has been receiving support from Norway since the EEA Agreement entered into force in 1994. The country’s per capita GDP was 19 % lower than the EU average in 2010, and it is number 41 on the United Nations Human Development Index. Portugal is receiving EUR 58 million under the grant scheme for 2009–14.

Like Norway, Portugal has a long coastline, and it is therefore natural for the two countries to cooperate on integrated management of marine resources. The Norwegian and Icelandic mapping authorities participate in some of the programmes. The Directorate for Civil Protection and Emergency Planning is the Norwegian partner in a programme on adaptation to climate change. Portugal and Iceland are also partners in a programme on the use of geothermal energy in the Azores.

The Institute of Public Health is the Norwegian partner in a programme to improve access to health care. Support for cultural heritage conservation will be continued, and a small cultural exchange programme has been established with the Arts Council Norway as a partner. The Association of Local and Regional Authorities will participate in a programme for mainstreaming gender equality. Ten per cent of the total support for Portugal has been allocated to a new NGO fund.

5.6.12 Spain

Spain has been receiving support from Norway since the EEA Agreement entered into force in 1994. The country’s per capita GDP was at the same level as the EU average in 2010, and it is number 23 on the United Nations Human Development Index. Spain is receiving EUR 45.9 million under the grant scheme for 2009–14.

Environment is the largest programme area in Spain during the current period, and a specific programme has been established for climate change‐related research and technology. Particular attention is to be paid to the renewable energy sources hydropower, solar power, wind power and marine energy. Innovation Norway is a programme partner, and exchanges of knowledge and experience between Norway and Spain are a key element in the cooperation.

Norway and Spain cooperate on promoting gender equality. The Equality and Anti-discrimination Ombudsman is the Norwegian partner in a programme on gender equality in the workplace, women entrepreneurship and women’s participation in the labour force. The Association of Local and Regional Authorities is also involved in the programme.

A new NGO fund is being established. Support for conservation of the natural and cultural heritage is being continued. A cultural exchange fund has also been set up, and the scholarship fund for students and researchers has been doubled.

5.6.13 Greece

Greece has been receiving support from Norway since the EEA Agreement entered into force in 1994. The country’s per capita GDP was 11 % lower than the EU average in 2010, and it is number 29 on the United Nations Human Development Index. Greece is receiving EUR 63.4 million under the grant scheme for 2009–14.

Greece faces major political, economic and social challenges. Priority is being given to environmental programmes and the asylum and migration sector.

The large flow of asylum-seekers and illegal immigrants into Greece is a serious problem. A programme has been set up on the reception system for newly arrived asylum-seekers, especially the reception of vulnerable groups such as unaccompanied minor asylum-seekers. Another programme has the objective of capacity-building in the national asylum and migration management systems so as to safeguard the rights of asylum-seekers. The Directorate of Immigration is the donor programme partner, and the IOM provides assistance for a project on voluntary return. UNHCR is receiving support for assisting the Greek authorities in the work on the Action Plan for Migration Management. The EEA and Norway Grants are supplementing EU efforts in this area.

Water resources management and renewable energy also receive support. A new NGO fund and a research programme are being set up.

5.6.14 Cyprus

Cyprus has been receiving funding under the EEA and Norway Grants since it joined the EU and the EEA in 2004. The country’s per capita GDP was only 2 % lower than the EU average in 2010, and it is number 31 on the United Nations Human Development Index, making it the highest ranking of the beneficiary states. Cyprus is receiving EUR 7.9 million under the grant scheme for 2009–14.

The conflict in Cyprus has political, economic and social consequences for the country. The funds under the EEA and Norway Grants are divided between a number of predefined projects in the health, environment and cultural sectors. An NGO fund is being set up to facilitate contact between Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot NGO. Support for the Home for Cooperation in the UN-controlled buffer zone is being continued. The Shelter Movement in Norway is cooperating with Cypriot partners on combating domestic violence, and a project has been established to address the problem of money laundering.

5.6.15 Malta

Malta has been receiving funding under the EEA and Norway Grants since it joined the EU and the EEA in 2004. The country’s per capita GDP was 17 % lower than the EU average in 2010, and it is number 36 on the United Nations Human Development Index. Malta is receiving EUR 4.5 million under the grant scheme for 2009–14.

Malta receives little support, and the funds are therefore concentrated on a few individual projects. Among these is the development of an algae biofuel production facility that will increase renewable energy production. A project is also being conducted in cooperation with Norwegian partners for developing a national emergency response system for acute oil pollution.

A project has been set up for the development of a new environmental management system for the World Heritage site of Hal Saflieni Hypogeum.

In the justice sector funding is being allocated to improving rehabilitation for young offenders. An NGO fund has been established.