EEA Financial Mechanism

The EEA Financial Mechanism (EEA Grants) represents the joint contribution of the EEA/EFTA states (Liechtenstein, Iceland and Norway) to reducing economic and social disparities within Europe. This solidarity contribution corresponds to the cohesion funds invested by the economically stronger EU states for projects in economically disadvantaged regions of Europe. For the period 2014-2021, Liechtenstein's contribution amounts to approximately EUR 19 million, or about 1.33 percent of the total cost of the EEA Financial Mechanism.

The EEA Financial Mechanism is based on implementation agreements (memoranda of understanding) with the 15 beneficiary states: Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Estonia, Greece, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Slovakia, Slovenia, Poland and Portugal, with funds flowing to only 14 beneficiary states, as the EEA EFTA states could not agree with Hungary on the distribution of funds to civil society. 

Liechtensteins advocates in these negotiations mainly for priorities in the areas of education, culture, migration and good governance. After the conclusion of the respective implementation agreement, funding will be allocated to projects in the beneficiary states according to the agreed priorities. Since the EEA Financial Mechanism is also intended to strengthen bilateral relations between the donor and recipient States, Liechtenstein project partners can also apply for joint projects.