Global Coalition Against Transnational Repression

The U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor is soliciting applications for a single cooperative agreement to establish a global program countering transnational repression, with an application deadline of August 12, 2026, at 11:59 PM ET. This is a single-award opportunity with total available funding of $2 million to $2.96 million and a performance period of 24 to 36 months, with an anticipated start date of September 30, 2026.

Eligible applicants include not-for-profit organizations, educational institutions, for-profit organizations (if allowed by appropriation), and individuals. All applicants must obtain a Unique Entity Identifier and maintain active SAM.gov registration. Applicants must dedicate at least 20 percent of the overall budget to subawards and local partnerships, identify at least two local partners, and provide comprehensive security plans addressing transnational repression threats to staff and participants.

Cost-sharing is encouraged and must be documented with written records supporting all claimed in-kind and cash contributions, valued in accordance with 2 CFR 200. Organizations with a Negotiated Indirect Cost Rate Agreement must submit current documentation; those without may claim up to 15 percent of Modified Total Direct Costs.

The program aims to establish a coordinated international response through a "Global Roadshow" approach by organizing 8–12 regional convenings that bring together government officials, law enforcement agencies, and civil society organizations. Key deliverables include developing educational toolkits, establishing information-sharing platforms, conducting baseline assessments, and creating coordination mechanisms for cross-border cases. DRL will be substantially involved throughout award startup and implementation, requiring DRL approval of detailed work plans within 45 days of award activation, written approval of subawards, and prior authorization for in-person activities outside the United States at least 14 days in advance.

Applications will be evaluated based on program quality and feasibility, organizational capacity, ability to achieve objectives, budget reasonableness, monitoring and evaluation plans, and sustainability prospects. The Assistance Listing number is 19.345, classified under Foreign Assistance Act Democracy Funds (FY25/26). The opportunity number is DFOP0019327.