MATRA SOCIAL TRANSFORMATION PROGRAMME
What is Matra?
Matra (Maatschappelijke Transformatie or social transformation) - is a substantial, wide-ranging programme of the Netherlands Ministry of Foreign Affairs designed to promote social transformation in Central and Eastern Europe. Since 1989, the countries of Central and Eastern Europe have been transforming -politically, economically and socially - into democratic, market-oriented nations. This created an opportunity for a transition towards democratic structures, legal principles and a social market economy.
Such a transformation cannot succeed if it is imposed from outside. Instead, the societies in transition must bear primary responsibility for the process. It will take governmental, legislative and othe institutional adaptations, but also changes in mentality and culture.
Aims of Matra
The general aim of the Matra Programme is to support the transformation towards a pluralist, democratic statehood under the rule of law in the countries of Central and Eastern Europe. It supports activities that promote reform of the state, its institutions, civil-society organisations (ngo's) and the relationships between them. Activities must have a lasting effect within the participating institutions as well as on the transformation process itself.
For whom has Matra been developed?
- citizens: in a civil society, the citizens bear primary responsibility
- non-governmental organisations (ngo's): for the implementation of Matra-projects
- government: to support good governance
Matra activities
Transfer knowledge and experience by means of technical assistance, consultancy, training, education.
Themes: legislation, public administration, human rights, environment, media, culture, education etc.
How does Matra work?
- Cooperation of Dutch NGO with NGO in Central/Eastern Europe;
- Matra funds and Funds of the Matra country (i.e. Ukraine) - financially or in kind;
- Efficient implementation
- Lasting effect
What does Matra expect from partners in Matra countries:
Substantial contributions, such as:
- Initiatives
- Ideas
- Contributions (financially or in kind) of local NGO-partner
- Contributions (financially or in kind) of relevant central or local government
