Over the next five years, 39 organizations will be offered grants through the Norwegian International Climate and Forest Initiative (NICFI). The portfolio amounts to NOK 300 million per year.

‘We received a number of proposals of very high quality. I am happy to extend the support to the civil society organizations that work to reduce emissions from deforestation in developing countries until 2020,’ says Tine Sundtoft, Minister of Climate and Environment.

This is the third time that Norad sends out an open call for grants to civil society organizations through the climate and forest project. Norad received more than 500 applications from organizations all over the world. Inger Brodal, Assistant Director of the Civil Society Department, is very satisfied with the outcome of this application round.

‘We have selected the best projects to help reduce deforestation and achieve a more equitable distribution of resources. We look forward to following up the efforts of the selected partners over the next five years,’ she states.

Brodal refers to the thorough and positive nature of this process.

‘Norad representatives have visited a number of the applicant organizations and examined the work they are doing in the forest countries. Norad has also maintained a close dialogue with the Norwegian Ministry of Climate and Environment and the Norwegian embassies.’

More support for rights and for combatting crime

‘Civil society has proved to be a very good channel for achieving results for forest protection,’ the Minister states. 

The new group of partners in civil society will continue the work on two of the thematic priorities from the previous funding period; efforts directed at the private sector and the international climate negotiations. In addition, the organizations will focus on the rights of indigenous peoples and other local populations and on combatting illegalities and corruption in the forestry sector.

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