2008 APS-Hastening Transition to Democracy in Cuba

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The United States Agency for International Development (USAID), Office of the Assistant Administrator for Latin America and the Caribbean (AA/LAC), is seeking applications from qualified Applicants for funding of cooperative agreements. The purpose of this APS is to support programs that expand the reach and impact of independent civil society in Cuba, and thereby hasten a peaceful transition to democracy. Successful Applicants will provide assistance to Cuban individuals or independent Cuban NGOs. In full compliance with U.S. Government policies, Applicants will undertake activities to: (1) Break the information blockade by increasing access to, and the flow of, accurate information on democracy, human rights, and free enterprise to, from, and within Cuba, including through independent uncensored access to the Internet particularly with the provision of innovative technology capable of by-passing Cuban Government restrictions. (2) Support advocacy efforts in Cuba that educate, train, provide equipment, and promote adoption of democratic rule of law, free market principles and internationally recognized human rights standards. Advocacy efforts shall promote human rights principles in accordance with the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.(3) Aid the development of Cuban independent, nongovernmental groups and entities engaged in political competition and consensus-building activities that support democratic and representative processes. (4)Assist the Cuban people to develop peaceful, strong, and independent nongovernmental civil society organizations, professional associations, democratic political parties and other groups through capacity building, equipment assistance (including its use), and technical training. (5) Develop and maintain a dialogue with Cuban human rights activists and other independent groups in Cuba , with special focus on Afro-Cuban and other marginalized communities, on specific issues that must be addressed by a future democratic transition in Cuba. (6) Promote development of a free labor movement and small, independent enterprises.

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