EU to provide €2 million to support July uprising injured

The European Union (EU) is launching a project today (19 March) to support around 8,000 individuals severely affected by the violence and disruption which occurred in the context of the July/August uprising in Bangladesh.

The "Pathways to Healing: A Survivor-Centred Approach to Address Violence and Human Rights Violations" intervention will be implemented by the Bangladesh Red Crescent Society (BDRCS), through the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), in close collaboration with the Government of Bangladesh and other stakeholders, reads a press statement by the European Union.

The €2 million grant project is fully funded by the European Union and is scheduled to be implemented by August 2026.

The primary focus of the initiative is to improve the physical and psychological well-being of survivors of violence, enhance their economic resilience, and strengthen social cohesion, as both the government of Bangladesh and the EU identify that severe needs continue to exist. 

The project aims to achieve these goals through several key initiatives. It will provide access to medical services, rehabilitation, and assistive devices for individuals facing physical challenges. 

Additionally, it will support existing health facilities by supplying pharmaceutical products and medical equipment. 

To address mental well-being, the project will offer tailored Mental Health and Psychosocial Support, including counselling, referrals, and the operation of a helpline for sustainable assistance. 

Furthermore, it will promote recovery and the diversification of income-generating activities to strengthen community resilience. Lastly, the project will organize dialogues and collaborative opportunities among diverse stakeholders to enhance social cohesion.

The project will be implemented in Dhaka, Chattogram, Khulna, Rangpur, and Rajshahi divisions, targeting persons directly affected by last year's events, including students, workers, journalists, their families, and others.

An important objective is to ensure continuity of support beyond the project period through strong coordination with government agencies and stakeholders, integration into existing government health and social support systems, and sustainable livelihood market linkages.