1. Introduction

The EU Civil Society Facility project is pleased to announce a Call for Expressions of Interest (EOI) for the establishment of Thematic Working Group (TWG) on Key Regional Priorities. Thematic Working Groups will bring together civil society organizations (CSOs) from five Central Asian countries—Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan—to address the following priority topics:

1. Digital Transition and Transformation
2. Climate Change and Environment
3. Women Empowerment
4. Governance, Social and Responsible Business
5. Strengthening Youth in Policy and Decision-Making

Each Working Group will serve as a regional platform for collaboration, advocacy, and capacity-building to drive positive change in the region. The aim of Thematic Working Groups is to promote the collaboration of Civil Society Organizations among themselves on national and regional level as well as with private and government sectors on addressing the above-mentioned priority areas. 

2. Objectives of the Thematic Working Group

The TWG aims to:

• Foster regional collaboration among CSOs on five priority topics.
• Develop and advocate for policy recommendations and innovative solutions.
• Strengthen the capacity of CSOs to engage in advocacy and reform implementation.
• Promote transparency, accountability, and inclusivity in decision-making processes.
• Ensure collaboration with the private and governmental sector.

3. Eligibility Criteria

We invite applications from registered civil society organizations that:

• Have expertise and experience in one or more of the five priority topics.
• Have a proven track record of impactful work in their respective field.
• Operate at the national or regional level in Central Asia.
• Demonstrate a commitment to collaboration and regional cooperation.
• Have the organizational capacity to actively participate in the Working Group’s activities.

The organizations that:

• Promote women equality and inclusion.
• Represent marginalized or underrepresented groups.

            are highly encouraged to apply.

4. Roles and Responsibilities of Members

Selected organizations will:

• Actively participate in Thematic Working Group meetings and activities.
• Develop a regional common agenda for cooperation with other CSOs.
• Contribute to the development of policy recommendations and advocacy strategies.
• Share knowledge and best practices with other members.
• Represent the Working Group in regional and international forums, i.e. EU-Central Asia Annual Civil Society Forum, etc.

5. Benefits of Participation

Members of the TWG will:

• Gain access to a regional and European network of civil society organizations.
• Enhance their capacity through training, knowledge-sharing, and collaboration.
• Contribute to shaping policies and initiatives that address key regional challenges.
• Receive support for travel and participation in Working Group meetings upon the need.

6. How to Apply

Interested organizations are invited to submit an Application Form including the following:

1. Organizational Profile: Name, mission, and key activities.
2. Relevant Experience: Description of your work related to the five priority topics.
3. Motivation Letter: Explain why your organization wants to join the Working Group and how you can contribute.
4. Contact Information: Name, email, and phone number of the main contact person.

One organization can be a member of only one Thematic Working Group.

Application Deadline: 25 June 2025, 23:59 Astana time (GMT +5)

Submit your application here: Google form - applicants will need to choose only one group while submitting the application.

Terms of Reference for the Thematic Working Group - 

7. Selection Process

8. Contact Information

For inquiries, please contact:
Bolot Isakov, DIHR Regional Coordinator on Partnerships and Networking
bois@humanrights.dk