PORTUGAL: Funding instability threatens domestic violence support CSOs
Organisations within Portugal’s National Network for the Support of Victims of Domestic Violence warned in June that they suffer from prolonged delays and uncertainty in public funding and that it is threatening the continuity of essential services for victims of domestic and gender-based violence. According to the network, the instability is driven by a heavy dependence on European funds and intermittent calls for funding applications. The lack of stable and predictable financing to the CSOs providing the services jeopardises the continuity of shelter, reception, and protection for victims.
The organisations warn the state that the current funding model creates persistent uncertainty regarding the future of essential support services across the country, they are at risk of closing in the coming months, and the absence of stable financing compromises the Portuguese state’s obligations under the Istanbul Convention. CSOs report that these developments highlight broader concerns about government neglect of civil society organisations providing essential public services.