Dublin, Ireland – 11th August 2025 — Enhancing Faith Institutions (EFI) welcomes the European Commission’s latest funding call under the Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values (CERV) programme, aimed at addressing anti-Muslim hatred and promoting inclusive societies across the European Union.
This targeted funding initiative reflects a timely and strategic commitment to countering Islamophobia, strengthening community resilience, and safeguarding the rights and dignity of Muslim communities throughout Europe. EFI commends the Commission’s leadership in prioritising this issue within the broader framework of equality, justice, and democratic values.
This funding opportunity represents a vital commitment to countering Islamophobia, promoting social cohesion, and protecting the dignity of Muslim communities in Europe.
The funding call enables civil society organisations, public authorities, and grassroots initiatives to implement impactful projects that:
Raise public awareness of anti-Muslim discrimination
Provide support mechanisms for victims of hate crimes and harassment
Enhance cooperation with law enforcement and judicial bodies
Challenge misinformation and harmful narratives
Promote inclusive education and intercultural dialogue
Recent EU research underscores the urgency of this initiative:
– The 2023 Special Eurobarometer on Discrimination revealed that over 60% of Europeans perceive discrimination based on religion or ethnicity as widespread, with many Muslims reporting direct experiences of exclusion and harassment.
– The 2024 report on the legal framework to combat anti-Muslim hate highlighted critical gaps in enforcement, underreporting of hate crimes, and the need for stronger legal protections.
– The FRA’s October 2024 report “Being Muslim in the EU” found that nearly half of Muslims surveyed had experienced discrimination in the past five years, with Muslim women and youth facing compounded challenges in employment, education, and public life.
EFI views this funding call as a pivotal moment in the EU’s ongoing efforts to uphold fundamental rights and foster inclusive societies. As anti-Muslim hatred continues to rise across Europe—driven by misinformation, political scapegoating, and global tensions—EFI urges stakeholders across sectors to engage proactively with this opportunity.
“This funding initiative is not only a recognition of the challenges faced by Muslim communities—it is a call to action. EFI stands ready to support partners across Europe in developing sustainable, community-led responses that promote dignity, inclusion, and justice for all.” — Enhancing Faith Institutions
EFI views this funding as a landmark moment in the EU’s broader efforts to uphold fundamental rights. It comes at a time when anti-Muslim hatred is rising across Europe, fueled by misinformation, political scapegoating, and global conflicts. The CERV programme’s focus on equality and inclusion is more critical than ever.
For further information, partnership inquiries, or support with proposal development, please contact:
info@faithinstitutions.org www.faithinstitutions.org
Featured image via Parikiaki
