Nepal
The Foundation’s international grantmaking program began in Nepal in 1999. During the initial years the Foundation invested in projects related to rural development, community schools, and countering domestic violence.
As an internal insurgency gained strength across Nepal in 2003, the Foundation’s focus shifted to supporting peace and conflict transformation efforts. The Foundation is currently funding a decade-long peacebuilding initiative which is guided by a volunteer steering committee of Nepali citizens.
The McConnell peacebuilding program in Nepal will promote a peace culture built on respect for diversity, rights, and nonviolent response to conflict. The Foundation will support innovative and inclusive peacebuilding activities that increase dialogue and participation at all levels of Nepali society.
Laos
In 2006 the Foundation’s board of directors decided to expand the international program to an additional country. After in-depth exploration of several nations in Africa, Central and South America, and Southeast Asia, the decision was made to begin an international program in the Lao People’s Democratic Republic.
The focus of the Foundation’s Lao work is a three-year program to improve access to justice for the poor and rural citizens of the country, focusing particularly on women and ethnic communities.
