text and images of projects - Photo:NOR Embassy
Celebrating 30 years of cooperation through the EEA and Norway Grants NOR Embassy

30 years of the EEA Grants in Greece

The EEA Grants represent the contribution of Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein to reducing economic and social disparities, and strengthening cooperation with 15 EU countries. The basis for the Grants is the EEA Agreement, signed in 1994. This year, we celebrate 30 years of partnership and cooperation in Greece through this agreement.

This year marks a significant milestone in the partnership between Norway and Greece. For 30 years, our two countries have been together in the European Economic Area. This is one of the largest free trade markets in the world. 

But it much more than free trade. This Agreement has made it possible for Norwegians to come to Greece and Greeks to come to Norway to travel, work, and study without barriers. 

The same Agreement has opened up new avenues of cooperation between our two countries, with the EEA and Norway Grants as the most prominent one.  

The Grants represent Norway’s financial support to Greece and amounts to EUR 310,4 million over the last 30 years. 

During this period our two countries have worked together to reduce social and economic inequalities, while strengthening our bilateral relationship based on shared values and goals.  

We are proud to mark this anniversary. Many thanks to all the people, organisations, and stakeholders involved in making impactful results and positive changes. 

 

Here is what the EEA Grants have focused on: 

 

This is however not the end. Shortly, we will start to negotiate the priorities for the next funding period worth 159,3 EUR million to Greece. Our cooperation and joint journey continues, working together towards a green, competitive, and inclusive Europe. 

Installation with photos
30-year-anniversary installation marking the celebration in Thessaloniki, Greece Photo: Royal Norwegian Embassy

30 Years–30 Images

A new art installation titled “30 Years–30 Images” made its debut in Thessaloniki in November 2024 and travelled to Athens for the celebration of the 30 years of the Grants in Greece.

Constructed from wood, metal, and other sustainable materials, this display features 30 photographs showcasing significant EEA Grants projects and lits with solar panels during the night. 

Summary of what has been achieved in Greece

Norway is a small country, and we want to make sure we make a difference when we engage. In the following, you will find a summary of what has been achieved in previous funding periods.

Greece - Funding period 2014-2021

Norway and Greece signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on funding totalling EUR 116.7 million under the EEA and Norway Grants on 31 October 2017. Job creation and business development are new and important priority areas. The agreement also builds on experience gained in the field of asylum and migration.

Greece - Funding period 2009-2014

For the period 2009-2014, €63.4 million was allocated to Greece, up from €34.3 million granted during the previous five year funding period. Key areas of support were among others safeguarding the right to seek asylum and improving the reception conditions, particularly of unaccompanied asylum-seeking children.

Greece - Funding period 2004-2009

For the period 2004-2009, Greece was allocated € 34.3 million. Key areas of support were protection of the environment, conservation of cultural heritage, health and childcare.

Greece - Funding period 1999-2003

For the period 1999-2003, Greece was allocated € 22 million. The allocation covered three large-scale environmental projects. Two of the projects aimed at restoring the wetlands of Amvrakikos and of the Riparian Forest of Nestos Delta.

Greece - Funding period 1994-1998

Allocations covered fourteen projects related to the rehabilitation and conservation of Greek monasteries, as well as a large-scale marine monitoring project aimed at pollution reduction.