June 06, 2003
Mercy Corps Rejects $7 Million Federal Grant, Citing Speech Restrictions
Having only recently been awarded a $7 million grant for humanitarian work in post-war Iraq, the Portland-based Mercy Corps is rejecting the money because of restrictions placed on its ability to discuss its work:
A copy of the disputed clause obtained by The Oregonian says that U.S. AID must approve and coordinate all contact with the news media, in Washington, D.C., or overseas, including interviews. While at least two humanitarian organizations have signed the agreements, Mercy Corps and Save the Children staff members say they don't want to sacrifice their independence.
...
The controversy comes as AID publicly promotes citizen participation in Iraq and the creation of open, pluralistic news media there. It exposes an unusual split between the U.S. government's main aid agency and the humanitarian organizations that depend on its funding.
Further restricting transparency, according to The Oregonian, U.S. Aid officials "decided to require reporters to request [copies of the proposed agreement] under the Freedom of Information Act." The paper obtained the clause relating to media restrictions from an un-named third party, neither U.S. AID nor Mercy Corps.
I'm impressed that Mercy Corps would resist such a large grant in the name of maintaining its integrity and independence. Although they are continuing to negotiate with U.S. AID, let's hope they find a way to engage in proper relief work without operating under a gag order.
In the meantime -- although it certainly can't compare to a $7 million Federal grant -- this is all the more reason to sign up for Bowling for Baghdad, a charity event whose proceeds will go to Mercy Corps. Interested bowlers need to raise a "minimum of $50 in sponsorship (plus $8 in lane fees)" in order to participate in the event.
According to a recent announcement by event organizers, "Mercy Corps notes that a $33 donation will buy water and hygiene kits for three refugee families for one month."