Supporting Libyas Political Transition

More than a year after the signing of the UN-Sponsored Libyan Political Agreement (LPA) on December 17, 2015, the formation of the unity Government of National Accord (GNA) and the implementation of the LPA remain stalled, as opposing factions continue attempts to thwart and delegitimize the transition process. Thus, continued support for the GNA and the implementation of the LPA by enhancing public discourse remain critically important to Libyas transition to a stable and democratic country. The Bureau of Near East Affairs Office of Assistance Coordination (NEA/AC) announces a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for projects designed to encourage national dialogue by supporting the constitutional process and fostering a professional and responsive media sector. Prior NEA/AC programs on the Constitution have provided technical assistance to the Constitutional Drafting Assembly (CDA) as it developed the current draft Constitution. The programs trained the CDA to conduct public outreach, and identified further need in engaging a broad audience, including groups in opposition to some clauses of the draft Constitution. This funding opportunity will build on past programming by facilitating dialogue on the constitutional process in order to engage citizens and non-supporters; and achieve consensus on a final draft constitution. Previous NEA/AC media programs provided technical trainings for media professionals to increase the number of credible journalists by producing debate shows and transition-related media content via television and radio outlets; and establishing a University of Tripoli media lab to train journalism students. This funding opportunity will enhance the media landscape and further address the needs of the Libyan people by providing an avenue for the GNA to communicate directly with its constituents; and by working to hold the government and the LPA accountable.