Transparency and Accountability Grants (TAG) Project

USAID and AMIDEAST Announce The Launching Of Transparency And Accountability Grants

The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and AMIDEAST-Lebanon announced a new project in May 2001 to provide assistance to Lebanon. The Transparency and Accountability Grants (TAG) project will provide $500,000 in small grants to local organizations for activities that address corruption and promote good governance. This project is a continuation of media, journalism, and local government programs launched by USAID-Lebanon in 1999.

In describing the importance of this program, Jon Breslar, the Director of USAID in Lebanon, commented, Over the past two years we have found increasing commitment on the part of the government, the private sector, and civil society to eliminate corruption in Lebanon. This is crucial not only for economic growth and investment, but for all aspects of Lebanons development. These TAG grants represent another step in promoting an open and transparent environment in which Lebanon can thrive and prosper.

AMIDEAST, an American non-governmental organization, has operated in Lebanon since 1967. AMIDEAST has been conducting educational and developmental programs throughout the Middle East and North Africa for 50 years, noted AMIDEAST-Lebanon Director Barbara Shahin Batlouni, and we look forward to working with Lebanese organizations to launch new activities in an area which is so important for Lebanons development.

TAG Grants  are up to $50,000.00, and will be given to local organizations or individuals to conduct short-term, high-impact activities that help strengthen transparency and accountability in Lebanon. Activities which partner local organizations with government agencies are especially encouraged, thereby building a public-private partnership in the effort to increase transparency.

Breslar also notes that, These TAG grants are intended to both complement and strengthen the governments efforts to reform the administration and build a strong economy. They will also help mobilize civil society to contribute their efforts and expertise in building a more open and transparent society.

Back to TAG Main Page.