Democracy and Human Rights Fund (DHRF)

The United States Embassy in The Gambia is accepting applications for use of the Democracy and
Human Rights Fund (DHRF) which provides assistance through grants to indigenous civil society organisations or Community Based Organisations (CBOs). These grants implement small, short-term, highly targeted activities designed to show measurable results with an emphasis on change in support of human rights and democratic institutions.

Common themes that proposals may cover and encourage include, though are not limited to: Change in civil and political rights; Adherence to the Rule of Law through legal framework conducive to civil and political rights; Free and democratic electoral systems; Development of democratic principles that promote human rights and result in change; Increase access of women and ethnic groups to the judicial and to political processes.

All DHRF funded activities must have a substantive link to the promotion of democracy or human rights. Proposals must be generated in the field within the particular country context and be based on specific requests from indigenous organisations; Clearly describe how the activities will be managed; Identify the anticipated results; Be completed within 12 months; Demonstrate that a change in democracy and/or human rights practices or law will occur, or that beneficiaries will receive a new awareness or democratic and/or human rights principles; Address civil and political rights (i.e. activities that promote the rule of law or domestic and civil and legal rights; Not exceed $25,000.

Certain types of activities do not qualify for this fund. These include the use of funds to influence the outcome of elections; training or advice, or support for police, prison or other law enforcement forces, military or any other program of internal intelligence or surveillance, building construction; vehicle purchase; long term (more than 12 months) recurring administrative costs such as building or equipment maintenance, rent, office supplies, or administrative salaries; conference or workshops that lack a specific and clear goal. The U.S. Embassy DI IRF selection committee will base their decision on potential impact, feasibility and financial soundness of the proposed activity.

If you wish to apply please send a proposal addressing the items in the sample proposal format by September 18th, 2008. To download a sample of a proposal format please go to the embassy website (http://banjul.usembassy.giv/news/us-embassy-press-release3/democracy -and-human-rights-fund-dhrf.html All proposals must have proforma invoices for purchases or services to be needed to justify line item budget. Incomplete proposals will not be considered for funding. You should keep a copy of your application for your records.

For more information, please call the U.S. Embassy on Tel. 4392856 Ext. 2300.