Force majeure is an extraordinary, unforeseeable, and unavoidable circumstance beyond the will of the contracting parties that prevents obligations from being fulfilled – a natural disaster, a state of war, or extensive measures by public authorities. In projects funded from EU funds, beneficiaries invoke it often, but it is recognised narrowly. Ordinary material price increases, supplier delays, staffing problems, and a lack of the beneficiary's own resources are not considered force majeure, as these are situations that belong to normal business risk. If the circumstance occurs, the key is to act formally: notify the provider in writing without delay, document the evidence, and request a reasonable adjustment to the schedule or the scope of the project. The mere occurrence of the circumstance does not release you from the obligation if you fail to report it within the deadline set by the contract. Assess the specific consequences with a lawyer.
See also: Project change, Amendment to the Non-repayable Financial Contribution Agreement (NFP), Withdrawal from the non-repayable financial contribution agreement (NFP).
