Application deadline: 11 August 2026 at 23:59 CET
ERA – LGBTI Equal Rights Association invites LGBTQIA+ activists and civil society organisation members from Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, North Macedonia and Serbia to apply for an Anti-Burnout Retreat, taking place in Montenegro from 27 to 30 September 2026.
Working for LGBTQIA+ rights in challenging and often hostile environments can carry a significant emotional and personal burden. The Anti-Burnout Retreat is designed to offer activists a supportive and confidential space to pause, rest, reconnect and strengthen their personal wellbeing.
About the retreat
The retreat will take place in a peaceful seaside setting in Montenegro, in a hotel situated between the mountains and the sea. The location offers privacy, comfort and opportunities to spend time in nature, with access to a swimming pool, sun terrace, garden and nearby beaches.
Participants will be able to take part in facilitated group sessions, relaxation activities and opportunities for individual support. Participation in group activities will be optional, allowing everyone to engage according to their own needs, energy and comfort. There will also be dedicated time for rest.
The retreat is intended not as another working event, but as an opportunity to temporarily step away from daily responsibilities and focus on personal wellbeing.
Key information
Dates: 27–30 September 2026
Location: Montenegro
Application deadline: 11 August 2026 at 23:59 CET
Eligible applicants must be based in one of the following countries:
- Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Montenegro
- North Macedonia
- Serbia
The number of available places is limited. All applicants will be informed of the selection results by the end of August 2026.
Confidentiality and wellbeing information
The information provided in the wellbeing section of the application questionnaire will be reviewed only by the selection committee and, where necessary, by the retreat facilitators. It will be used exclusively for participant selection and to ensure that appropriate support can be provided during the retreat.
All such information will be treated confidentially and will not be shared beyond the organisers without the applicant’s consent.
Completing the application
Applicants are encouraged to complete the questionnaire as thoroughly as possible and to answer in their own words, drawing on their personal experiences, needs and perspectives.
We are interested in hearing each applicant’s authentic voice. Please avoid submitting generic or AI-generated responses.
Complete the application questionnaire by 11 August 2026 at 23:59 CET.
The present call for application is launched by ERA within the framework of the FIER·ES programme (Fostering the Inclusion, Equality and Resilience of LGBTQIA+ people). FIER·ES aims to support LGBTQIA+ CSOs and initiatives so that they are better able to carry out their mandate and mission and promote respect, inclusion, dignity and equality for LGBTQIA+ people in the Eastern Partnership countries and the Western Balkans. It is coordinated by ERIM and implemented together with ERA and Genderdoc – M (Moldova). The programme is co-funded by Agence française de développement.
