The activity will focus on design and implement civic and voter education programs which adhere to covid-19 measures

The US Agency for International Development Timor-Leste awarded a $2.5 million cooperative agreement to the Consortium For Elections & Political Process Strengthening under the USAID Foreign Assistance for Programs Overseas (CFDA 98.001) federal grant program. The award will support the design and implementation of civic and voter education programs in Timor-Leste that adhere to COVID-19 safety measures from October 1, 2022 through September 30, 2023. Specifically, the awardee will conduct socially-distanced, mask-mandated training and produce print and video materials to educate voters on participation in the upcoming parliamentary elections while following COVID-19 protocols. The agreement also includes $500,000 subawards to the International Foundation for Electoral Systems and International Republican Institute to support inclusive parliamentary election activities through September 2023.

This includes ensuring that USAID-sponsored training will be conducted in the environment where physical distance is strictly observed, masks wearing and the use of hand-sanitation is enforced. Publication and video voter education materials will also include awareness raising messages to the public on how to follow covid-19 protocol including when they come to vote on the election day.