Public Health Program Grants – Open Society

The Open Society Public Health Program invites proposals from civil society organizations (individual organizations or consortiums) that will identify the current EU funds designated for migrants’ mental health, and elucidate whether such funds have been spent in a relevant and accountable manner by the European Union and member states. The successful applicant will also conduct advocacy-related activities to support the appropriate designation, levels, and use of EU funds.

Over the past years, the combination of EU policies—including the EU–Turkey deal and Dublin Regulation—has contributed to the large-scale deterioration of migrants’ mental health. While epidemiological evidence exists to show how European policies are exacerbating migrants’ vulnerabilities and suffering, the European Union’s financial contribution to migrants’ mental health remain unexamined. Furthermore, member states’ own approaches to migrants, including detention in appalling conditions and failure to provide access to effective mental health services, has led to major human rights violations.

Targeted advocacy is needed to support increased funding at the EU and state levels for migrants’ mental health, including their integration into the society of the country of which they now reside.