International Programs to Support Democracy, Human Rights and Labor
Open Opportunities (2)
Live Grants.gov opportunities funded under this program — you can apply now.
- IRF FY25 Nigeria Strengthening Capacity of the Legal Community Deadline: Jul 9, 2026 · up to $3.5M
- IRF FY25 Nigeria Documentation and Accountability for Religious Freedom Abuses Deadline: Jul 9, 2026 · up to $3.5M
Who has received this funding
Organizations awarded under CFDA 19.345 (USAspending.gov).
- National Endowment For Democracy 5 awards $1,415,249,799
- Vital Voices Global Partnership Inc 2 awards $43,516,017
- International Coalition Of Sites Of Conscience $41,873,445
- Freedom House, Inc. $25,316,509
- Center For International Private Enterprise, Inc. $10,254,124
Program Objective
DRL funds targeted democracy and human rights programs to address human rights abuses globally and support the U.S. government’s foreign policy objectives. These programs touch on advancing the rule of law, upholding fundamental freedoms, and supporting U.S. workers and businesses abroad. In addition, DRL funds efforts across the globe to facilitate successful and sustained transitions to democracies, where civil and political rights are respected, and there is a process for transitional justice, accountability and reconciliation.
Eligibility
Eligible Applicants
- Foreign Nonprofit Organization
- Nonprofit Organization
Please see solicitation on www.grants.gov for additional eligibility criteria.
How to Apply
Award Procedure
Please see solicitation on www.grants.gov.
Decision Timeline
- Approval: From 90 to 120 days
Program details & compliance
Description
This listing supports democracy and human rights programs worldwide, implemented in close coordination with U.S. embassies to advance American values and strategic interests. We defend fundamental freedoms, support U.S. workers and businesses abroad, and counter authoritarianism through targeted assistance that aligns with America-first foreign policy.
Mission Categories
Primary: Legal Services - Other
Use of Funds
Allowed Uses
The Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights and Labor’s Human Rights and Democracy Fund (HRDF) supports programs that uphold democratic principles, support and strengthen democratic institutions, promote human rights, and build civil society. Permissible uses of democracy funds include supporting free and fair elections through voter education, election monitoring, and training for officials; strengthening civil society through capacity building for NGOs, advocacy training, and civic engagement; promoting rule of law and good governance through judicial reform, anti-corruption initiatives, and legislative strengthening; protecting human rights through support for defenders, legal aid, and documentation of abuses; enhancing media freedom through training for journalists, investigative journalism, and countering disinformation; and promoting political pluralism.
DRL focuses its work in countries with egregious human rights violations, where democracy and human rights advocates are under pressure and where governments are undemocratic or in transition. The Bureau's programmatic strategy is to primarily work with local civil society, including independent media, to support those working to strengthen democratic institutions and promote accountability.
Restrictions
See solicitation on Grants.gov See solicitation on Grants.gov for use restrictions.
Required Documentation
Please see solicitation on www.grants.gov.
Reporting & Compliance
Applicable 2 CFR 200 Subparts
- Subpart B — General Provisions
- Subpart C — Pre-Federal Award Requirements
- Subpart D — Post-Federal Award Requirements
- Subpart E — Cost Principles
- Subpart F — Audit Requirements