Cluster 2 mobilises topics that require multidisciplinary expertise of European social sciences and humanities (SSH) to understand fundamental and contemporary transformations of society, economy, politics and culture. It aims to provide evidence-based policy options for a socially just and inclusive European green and digital transition and recovery. 

Below are the internal deadlines and budget template for all University of Malta applications under Cluster 2, along with a summary of 2 specific topics under this destination. For a complete list of topics under the destination of Innovative Research on Governance and Democracy, please consult the work programme.

Call ID: HORIZON-CL2-2026-01-DEMOCRACY-07
Call Title: Supporting post-conflict democracy and reconstruction

Call Type: Research and Innovation Action with Lump Sum Funding. The programme aims to fund 2 Projects with a contribution of around EUR 3.5 to EUR 4 Million per project under this call.

Topic: Post-conflict zones require robust reconstruction to overcome institutional damage, deep-seated inequalities, and social fractures. This interdisciplinary research project analyzes the root causes of conflict to deliver actionable, evidence-based strategies that promote long-term stability, social dialogue, and democratic accountability.

The project targets 4 distinct areas to achieve sustainable peace:

• Policymaking & Aid Integrity: Equips leaders with anti-corruption strategies and evidence-based recommendations for transparent aid use.
• Civil Society Guidance: Empowers grassroots groups to guide educators, media, and administrators in driving community reconciliation.
• Vulnerable & Veteran Support: Funds specialized NGO programs addressing the psychological and socio-economic needs of conflict-affected individuals.
• Inclusive Research Networks: Unites diverse stakeholders—emphasizing women peacebuilders and transgenerational insights—to co-create community-led reconstruction models.

Call ID: HORIZON-CL2-2026-01-DEMOCRACY-09
Call Title: Citizenship education as part of lifelong learning

Call Type: Research and Innovation Action with Lump Sum Funding. The programme aims to fund 4 Projects with a contribution of around EUR 3.5 to EUR 4 Million per project under this call.

Topic: A healthy democracy relies on continuous, informed citizen engagement across all age groups and demographic backgrounds. This research project investigates how vocational education and training (VET) or adult learning programs can boost civic knowledge, political awareness, and democratic participation in the face of evolving technological and economic challenges.

The project targets 4 distinct areas to enhance lifelong civic learning:

• Policymaking & Frameworks: Equips leaders with tools and recommendations to expand lifelong civic learning opportunities and boost democratic participation. 
• Inclusive Access Barriers: Deploys tools ensuring marginalized, underrepresented, and aging populations can participate equally in democratic life.
• Literacy & Digital Engagement: Enhances media literacy to counter disinformation while leveraging civic tech alongside traditional, person-to-person approaches.
• Curriculum & Method Piloting: Tests innovative curricula for teachers and students to directly link educational programs to active voting and volunteering.