Counterpart International

We’re excited to launch Counterpart Voices—our new multimedia platform that brings forward the voices of colleagues, partners, program participants, and changemakers. Through their stories, we highlight resilience, innovative solutions, and citizen-led change, amplifying the experiences of those who are making a difference in the world’s most challenging environments.? Discover these powerful narratives and let them inspire you. https://lnkd.in/g2GiseiR

In Timor-Leste, the push for gender equality is gaining momentum. Since 2020, Counterpart International’s partnership with USAID has elevated local organizations to break down barriers to women’s advancement.? One of our key partners, FONGTIL, has transformed its approach to inclusivity, with improvements in recruitment, program design, and workplace accessibility under the leadership of Alicia Rodrigues Araujo. Reflecting on the impact, she shared, "The GESI training expanded our understanding of inclusivity in all aspects of our work."? This year alone, Counterpart supported over 1,200 individuals in gender equality. Explore the full story to learn more about this journey here.?

We are pleased to share that the Government Ethics Tribunal of El Salvador has recognized the Transparency and Integrity Activity with the distinguished “Friends of Public Ethics” award at the launch of Ethics Week. This honor acknowledges our team's dedicated efforts to strengthen anti-corruption frameworks, implement international standards for quality in processes, and establish robust compliance management systems across public sectors. These initiatives support transparency and enhance accountability in El Salvador. The Government Ethics Tribunal plays a pivotal role in promoting ethical standards, preventing misconduct, and upholding public integrity within Salvadoran institutions. This recognition reinforces our commitment to partnering with public entities in building a more transparent and accountable society.?

School feeding programs do more than nourish children; they transform communities. ? ? By sourcing locally grown cornmeal in southern Senegal, Counterpart’s Sukaabe Janngo II project, funded by USDA, is feeding over 80,000 students while supporting local women processors and farmers. ? ? This partnership sustains school meals and generates close to $1 million for local economies.? ? Learn how these community-led initiatives are paving the way for sustainable development and lasting impact. ? ? Click to read more about this inspiring model of local change. Counterpart International Senegal, Kathryn Lane

In early October, we sponsored the Central America Donors Forum, where our colleagues, Tatyana Venegas Swanson and Tiernan Mennen, led two discussions on advancing democratic values through social and behavioral change and strengthening activism and social movements in El Salvador through collaboration.?? ? This event provided a special platform for our team to share Counterpart’s mission and values and highlight our work in these crucial areas. They engaged with a diverse group of stakeholders committed to promoting human rights, diversity, and democracy throughout Latin America.?? ? Attending events like #CADF24 is essential for building connections across sectors, sharing insights, and creating alliances that amplify the impact of international development work. Communities served by development initiatives thrive when they benefit from a diverse range of donors and resources, as each contributes a unique perspective and support system, enabling more sustainable and inclusive progress.? ? A special thank you to Seattle International Foundation for hosting us in beautiful Antigua, Guatemala.

When given the opportunity to elevate the voices of underserved communities, we have a responsibility to act. The experiences and insights of our colleagues, partners, program participants, solution creators, and all those confronting the toughest challenges in today’s most demanding contexts deserve to be heard and amplified. Through Counterpart Voices, we are doing just that. This new multimedia platform brings forward the perspectives of our local partners and community members worldwide.? By sharing their stories, we aim to reach a larger audience, inspiring others with accounts of resilience, innovative solutions, and citizen-led change. ?Join us in listening to these powerful voices and learn more here.?https://lnkd.in/g2GiseiR

Be part of global change! Subscribe to our newsletter and get inspired by stories of transformation from communities around the world.?? Each month, you will discover how people are improving their communities, gaining new skills, and ensuring that historically underserved voices are included in local decision-making.? ?? Explore our latest newsletter: https://lnkd.in/eCu_9zhe ?? Subscribe here: https://lnkd.in/g9dSXsVs

Civic space is shrinking globally, and civil society is working to protect vital advocacy efforts.? At the 9th International Conference on Shrinking Civic Space in Asia, Counterpart hosted an insightful session in Bangkok, highlighting strategies for resilience in challenging environments. Leaders such as Flora Menezes from Timor Leste and Arzak Khan from Pakistan shared their stories and practical approaches to engaging governments and preserving civic freedoms.? With?narrowing political and media freedom across the region in mind, Kourtney Pompi introduced tools to help organizations adapt and respond.? Read the full article to explore these insights and recommendations that are crucial for the future of civic engagement. Image credit: Asia Centre

After decades of political upheaval, Iraq’s civil society is gaining strength. Through our USAID-funded Iraq Civil Society Activity (ICSA-Tafa’aol), we are increasing citizen engagement, focusing especially on marginalized groups like women and youth.?? ? In a landmark event, ICSA-Tafa’aol hosted its first Inter-Provincial Multi-Stakeholder Dialogue in Erbil, bringing together 70+ leaders from government, academia, and civil society—including 33 organizations across 11 provinces—to explore civic engagement innovations in AI, media, localization, and sustainability. ? ?? High-level speakers, such as U.S. Consul Mark Stroh and Iraq PM Youth Advisor Qassim Al-Dhalimy, addressed the group, facilitating dialogue with groups like VIOLET ORGANIZATION on impactful youth initiatives.? ICSA-Tafa’aol proudly supports these youth-led, community-driven innovative solutions. ? Read the full story here ?? to see how we are helping to build a vibrant, resilient civil society in Iraq??

Around the world, women are powerful advocates for change, and when their voices are heard, they can drive significant change.?? Women in Bangladesh are no exception.?? Through our USAID-funded Promoting Advocacy and Rights activity, Counterpart supported women from marginalized communities to lead grassroots advocacy efforts.?? Women like Konka Das and Hena Aktar Rupa are advocating for social justice, environmental improvements, and greater rights for underserved populations.? These efforts are transforming social dynamics, paving the way for increased women's participation in decision making at the national level.? Read our full story here ???