In 2009-10, the AusAID Human Rights Small Grants Scheme (HRSGS) provides short-term funding for non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and human rights institutions in developing countries for projects that promote and protect human rights. It has expanded its geographical focus to include all of Africa and Latin America, in addition to the Asia-Pacific, Caribbean, and Middle East. (Eligible countries are listed here in PDF format.)

The HRSGS, established in 1997, is managed by the Australian Agency for International Development (AusAID) in consultation with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) and Australia’s network of Overseas Diplomatic Posts. It supports human rights by funding projects that build the capacity of developing countries to promote and protect human rights.

Successful applicants will be announced on Human Rights Day, December 10 2009.

Click here for more information in PDF format.

Proposed projects should be for between A$20,000 and A$100,000.

• Projects should preferably be of a one-year duration.
• Projects of up to A$150,000 over two years will be considered.
• Funding will not be provided for travel expenses exceeding 20 per cent of total project costs, or for the provision of equipment, freight, or buildings, where each exceeds 20 per cent of the total project costs.

Applications should be sent to the following regional emails:

PacificHRSGS@ausaid.gov.au

AsiaHRSGS@ausaid.gov.au

AfricaHRSGS@ausaid.gov.au

MiddleEastHRSGS@ausaid.gov.au

CaribbeanHRSGS@ausaid.gov.au

LatinAmericaHRSGS@ausaid.gov.au

WUNRN listserv, Edition No: 453, on August 26 2009.