The Department of State’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) has issued a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for the "Fostering Accountability through Whistleblowers" project in North Macedonia. This initiative focuses on promoting whistleblower reporting to fight corruption and strengthen the rule of law. The project seeks to enhance the role of whistleblowers in uncovering illicit practices, enabling formal investigations by authorities. The total funding available is $200,000, with awards ranging from $100,000 to $200,000. Only one award is expected to be made, with a project period of 18 to 24 months.

The problem statement highlights that corruption in North Macedonia is a major obstacle to democracy and Euro-Atlantic integration. Despite the existence of whistleblower protection legislation, implementation has been poor, and very few reports have been made in recent years. The project aims to improve the whistleblower system, support government employees in reporting misconduct, and ensure that authorities act on whistleblower reports effectively.

The project’s objectives include raising awareness among government employees about what constitutes criminal conduct and the channels for reporting it. The project also aims to enhance protections for whistleblowers, ensuring they can report misconduct without fear of retaliation. Authorities will be trained to handle reports from whistleblowers effectively, and collaboration between agencies will be strengthened.

Key activities include designing a whistleblower pilot program, training law enforcement and prosecutors, and improving methods for whistleblowing. The project will also involve capacity building for public institutions and relevant authorities, with a focus on protecting whistleblowers and investigating reports of misconduct.

Eligible applicants include U.S.-based and foreign non-profit organizations, educational institutions, and NGOs. Cost-sharing is recommended but not required. Applications must be submitted through grants.gov by October 31, 2024, and should include all required documents, such as a proposal narrative, budget, and performance monitoring plan.

The application review will be based on several criteria, including project analysis and design, institutional capacity, cost-effectiveness, and program monitoring. The project supports INL’s broader goals of combating corruption, promoting accountability, and supporting the rule of law in North Macedonia.