Extrabudgetary contributions are an essential resource for the Council of Europe and significantly enhance the impact of our support to member states and beyond. Voluntary contributions are also the main source of funding for technical assistance and co-operation activities. Voluntary contributions are sought and accepted within the framework of the Organisation’s Programme and Budget and focus on agreed priorities. The Council of Europe’s resource mobilisation strategy also aims to strengthen donor relations and promote long-term framework agreements.

Funding trends

From 2015 to 2025, voluntary contributions have increased by 76%.

Funding sources

The European Union remained our largest donor in 2025 while Germany was the largest bilateral donor. 42 of the 46 member states contributed in 2025.

Top .10. donors in 2025

Representing 87% of the total.

 

 .€. Funding sources

  Spotlight 2025

Germany was the top bilateral donor in 2025 with a contribution of over €14 million.

As the lead donor to the Council of Europe Action Plan for Ukraine 2023-2026 (€9.97 million), Germany plays a key role in supporting Ukraine's reform agenda and its path to a European future.

Germany is a strong supporter of the Convention system, ranking among the largest donors to both the European Court of Human Rights and the implementation of its judgments.

Germany is also a member of the Human Rights Trust Fund (HRTF).

Action Plans and co-operation documents

Funding situation for country specific Action Plans and co-operation documents at 31 December 2025.

* All references to Kosovo, whether the territory, institutions or population, in this text shall be understood in full compliance with the United Nations Security Council Resolution 1244 and without prejudice to the status of Kosovo.