About the Fund
The Civic Emergency Fund is a joint initiative of Trag Foundation and Kosovar Civil Society Foundation (KCSF) supporting civil society in the Western Balkans and Croatia.
It provides rapid, proportionate support when urgent threats create immediate or cumulative risk to safety, security, or the functioning of civil society actors.
Emergency definition
Emergencies include targeted threats or harassment, legal or administrative attacks (including SLAPPs), smear campaigns, sudden movement restrictions, raids, arrests, detention, or equipment seizure—requiring rapid action to prevent harm or disruption. Emergencies also include acute psychological or psychosocial needs that may arise immediately or surface later as a consequence of these events.
Gradual funding reductions, routine operational challenges, or long-term sustainability needs are not treated as emergencies.
Lead Partners
Kosovar Civil Society Foundation (KCSF)
KCSF strengthens civic initiatives and democratic values in Kosovo and the region, focusing on diverse financial access, capacity building, and community-grounded engagement.
kcsfoundation.orgTrag Foundation
Trag is a leading independent foundation in Serbia with 25+ years of supporting civic participation, philanthropy, and social change, helping citizens defend democratic values.
tragfondacija.orgEach partner leads specific countries to ensure contextual accuracy and fast response.
Donors Supporting the Pooled Mechanism
The Civic Emergency Fund is supported by a group of philanthropic foundations committed to strengthening civic resilience and protecting civic space in the region.
The Fund is financed through a pooled mechanism, allowing multiple donors to contribute toward a coordinated, efficient, and jointly governed emergency-response system. Initial contributors include PeaceNexus Foundation and Rockefeller Brothers Fund.