DRL Internet Freedom Program: Grants for Global Impact

The Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor (DRL) is a division within the U.S. Department of State focused on promoting democracy, human rights, and labor policies worldwide. DRL develops U.S. human rights policies, works to uphold civil liberties, and coordinates policy efforts on labor rights in a global context. With a core mission to promote fundamental freedoms and ensure human rights are protected, the bureau actively supports civil society organizations, human rights defenders, and independent media globally. Additionally, DRL’s work includes combating online censorship and protecting internet freedom, ensuring that technology and digital platforms support democracy rather than stifling it. The Office to Monitor and Combat Anti-Semitism is also housed within DRL, underscoring its commitment to addressing various forms of intolerance. DRL’s initiatives empower individuals and organizations fighting against oppressive systems, facilitating the flow of information and freedom of expression worldwide.

The DRL Internet Freedom Program aims to protect a free, secure, and open internet through four major funding themes: technology development to bypass censorship, enhancing digital security for vulnerable populations, advocacy against repressive internet laws, and research to counter internet freedom threats. The grant supports programs that focus on ensuring secure access to the global internet, protecting human rights defenders from digital attacks, and advocating for policy reforms that safeguard online freedoms. Key project goals include combating internet shutdowns, countering the misuse of AI in online surveillance, and promoting accountability for digital repression. By addressing these critical areas, the grant seeks to support initiatives that advance internet freedom and mitigate online threats to human rights. Successful proposals should demonstrate a strong capacity to implement programs that align with these priorities.