EU funding for Palestinian NGOs draws criticism over alleged anti-Israel stance

The European Union is moving forward with a new round of funding for Palestinian non-governmental organizations (NGOs) under its Peacebuilding Initiative, allocating an estimated 8 million euros for grants between 400,000 and 800,000 euros each. The application deadline for these funds is July 24.

This initiative aims to foster dialogue and cooperation between Israelis and Palestinians, aligning with the EU's consistent support for a two-state solution. Previous efforts have included conferences with civil society representatives and government officials, such as one initiated by French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot, which sought to advance a permanent ceasefire, secure hostage releases, and rebuild Gaza.

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It is extremely worrying that European funding is flowing to groups that proudly oppose any normalization measures with Israel. This is a glaring contradiction of European policy.

However, the planned funding has drawn sharp criticism from NGO Monitor, an Israeli watchdog organization that scrutinizes government funding for NGOs. Olga Deutsch, the organization's vice president, expressed deep concern, stating that European funding is flowing to groups that "proudly oppose any normalization measures with Israel." She argued this contradicts European policy and is particularly problematic given the signatories' endorsement of "resistance in all forms," which she described as a "worrying call for violence."

Deutsch urged European governments and the EU to immediately halt funding for any NGO that signed the statement and to cease all related activities. The controversy highlights the deep divisions and mistrust surrounding peace efforts and the role of civil society organizations in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

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The signatories' approval of 'resistance in all forms' – which is a disturbing call for violence – is even more problematic.