Risk and Compliance aspects

Open Collective Europe: Grant Eligibility and Risk Assessment Policy

🧭 Introduction

Open Collective Europe (OCE) is committed to supporting initiatives that promote positive social change and a more just world. This policy outlines the criteria used to assess the eligibility of grant proposals and identify potential compliance risks associated with terrorism/extremism financing.

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✅ Grant Eligibility Criteria

OCE prioritizes proposals from initiatives that:

• Operate in accordance with the law.

• Do not support or glorify terrorist groups.

• Demonstrate responsible financial management practices, including transparent record-keeping and reporting.

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🔍 Compliance Risk Assessment

OCE assesses potential compliance risks associated with grant proposals using the following factors (in order of importance):

1. Beneficiary Impact: Does the initiative's work demonstrably benefit its target communities?

2. Public Statements: Does the initiative's public messaging avoid promoting violence or extremism?

3. Transparency: Does the initiative publish financial statements and reports on its activities?

4. Legality: Does the initiative's mission and activities align with legal frameworks and international law?

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🌍 Contextual Considerations

OCE recognizes the importance of context when evaluating proposals. Due diligence is conducted to understand the specific circumstances and actions of the initiative.

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📚 Information Sources

To assess grant proposals, OCE utilizes various information sources, including (in order of importance):

• Initiative websites and reports.

• Credible news sources and independent research organizations.

• United Nations and human rights organization reports.

• Government watchlists and sanctions lists.

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🚫 Limited Veto Power

OCE reserves the right to propose a veto of a grant proposal if a high compliance risk is identified based on the criteria outlined above. A clear and documented justification will be provided, outlining the specific concerns.

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📢 Appeals Process

Initiatives have the right to appeal a veto decision. The appeals process will be clearly communicated to all applicants.

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🔄 Policy Review and Revision

This policy is reviewed and revised periodically to ensure its effectiveness and alignment with best practices.

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🧩 Conclusion

OCE is committed to balancing the prevention of terrorism financing with the support of legitimate initiatives working towards positive social change. This policy serves as a framework to achieve this objective.

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📬 Need Assistance?

For questions or further information regarding risk and compliance aspects, please contact us at [email protected].