U.S. Embassy Asuncion, Paraguay Public Diplomacy, combating corruption through transparency and accountability

I. PROGRAM DESCRIPTION The Embassy of the United States of America in Paraguay’s Public Diplomacy (PD) section is pleased to announce an open competition for assistance awards through this Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO). This funding opportunity is made possible under the Fulbright-Hays Act as amended. Corruption, exacerbated by transnational organized crime, cuts across society and is often reported about in the press. Corruption and impunity impede achievement of goals related to strengthening security, institutions, and democratic governance as well as expanding economic opportunities and overall prosperity in Paraguay. This funding opportunity seeks to respond to public demand to institutionalize transparency and anti-corruption efforts by supporting the work of civil society organizations in this regard. Specifically, this funding opportunity aligns with civil society efforts to strengthen citizen mechanisms that increase accountability of local and national government entities in Paraguay, support positive feedback loops for government entities’ responsiveness to citizen needs and preferences, and empower citizens (including youth) to engage meaningfully in efforts to combat corruption and strengthen the judicial system. Funding Priorities: PD invites eligible organizations and individuals to submit proposals to support activities that take place in Paraguay for Paraguayan audiences that are directly linked to the following priority area: ● Improving transparency and accountability in government using public data, online portals, social media, traditional media, and other fora with an emphasis on citizens as the center of governance processes. At the same time, the PD section always seeks to inform and share with audiences in Paraguay about U.S. culture, society, economy, governmental processes, political systems, and values through our programs and funding opportunities. To further these goals, proposals must include American “content.”