Tunisia: Supporting a Democratic Transition

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The Office of the Middle East Partnership Initiative (MEPI) in the Bureau of Near Eastern Affairs at the U.S. Department of State announces an Annual Program Statement (APS) competition for proposals supporting Tunisia�s democratic transition, which includes the drafting of a new constitution, the election of a new president and parliament (anticipated for later in 2011), economic and political reforms, and other steps toward democracy. The United States stands ready to assist the Tunisian people in achieving a credible transition that lays the foundation for a fully open and democratic political system. MEPI seeks proposals that address, in the Tunisian context, the goal of building participatory, pluralistic, and prosperous societies in which citizens: (a) have the regular opportunity to play active roles in making decisions that affect their lives and in holding their government accountable, (b) have equal standing, protected by guaranteed rights and by independent and effective courts of law, and (c) have the skills to work effectively in an environment that promotes innovation, spurs private sector development, and creates new employment opportunities. MEPI has particular interest in proposals that address the following priority areas considered of high relevance to Tunisia�s democratic transition over the next two years:A. Enhancing the capacities of civil society organizations (CSOs) and other nongovernmental (NGO) groups throughout Tunisia;B. Expanding freedom of expression, developing an independent media, and promoting better public access to information;C. Strengthening the rule of law;D. Developing democratic electoral and political processes and institutions, including a strong political party system, free and fair elections, and effective newly formed and elected institutions; andE. Promoting economic recovery, growth, and employment through the expansion of the private sector and entrepreneurship.

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