Through April 2014, professionals from the United States, Brazil, Colombia, Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Haiti, Mexico, Nicaragua and Paraguay will participate in reciprocal fellowships abroad that harness the power of citizen diplomacy and link it to long-term engagement around legislative process and policy issues that affect multiple communities. Fellows will become part of an extensive network of Partners volunteers, Partners exchange alumni, and collaborating institutions that boasts more than 45 years of people to people engagement across cultures and regions.

Program Goals

●     Build sustainable relationships with professionals and organizations in diverse communities around strategic sub-themes: Citizen Advocacy, Citizen Participation, Legislative Processes, Transparency, and Accountability

●     Afford Fellows the opportunity to share their professional expertise and continue their professional development via a dynamic and sustainable network

●     Strengthen the capacity of the Fellows' communities to more effectively enact and engage civil society, government and legislative processes

During their fellowships, participants will be hosted by organizations and institutions in their host communities who are actively engaged in legislative process and policy. Fellows will work closely with colleagues on projects and build their professional capacity through site visits, volunteer projects, and on-the-job training.

Participating Countries

Fellows must be nationals of Brazil, Colombia, Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Haiti, Mexico, Nicaragua, Paraguay or the United States.

Participating Entities

Municipal, State and Federal Governments, Civic Education Organizations, Citizen Advocacy Groups, Political Parties, Election Monitoring Organizations

Fellowship Examples

●     Interacting and engaging with Congressman or Senators across legislative themes

●     Examining policy at the municipal, state and national level with institutions

●     Working alongside civil society organizations and networks who are addressing and adapting policy and process