Dear Senator Rubio and the Department of Government Efficiency,

I am writing to express concerns regarding the transparency and accountability of U.S. government funds allocated to support human rights initiatives in Iran, specifically through the Near East Regional Democracy (NERD) program. While the program’s goals—fostering civil society, promoting free information flow, and defending human rights—are essential, there are growing questions about how effectively these funds are being utilized and whether they are achieving the intended outcomes.

Since NERD’s establishment in FY2009, the program has expanded, with a $65 million request for FY2024, reflecting a $10 million increase. However, there is limited publicly available information on how these funds are distributed and whether they directly benefit those in Iran who are facing significant challenges. There is concern among some that not all resources may be directed to the intended recipients, and that the funds may not always result in the intended outcomes of supporting human rights and democracy within Iran.

Many Iranians, particularly in the diaspora, are hopeful that U.S. assistance will have a tangible and direct impact on the lives of those struggling under the regime’s oppression. There is a shared desire to see that funding effectively supports those on the ground—whether it’s through assisting political prisoners, aiding workers on strike, or documenting human rights abuses.

In light of these concerns, I respectfully urge both Senator Rubio and the Department of Government Ethics to advocate for the following actions to increase accountability and ensure U.S. funds are used effectively:

Increased Accountability

• Encourage efforts to ensure a transparent and regular review of how NERD and related programs allocate and utilize funds.

• Support regular reporting mechanisms that allow for clearer public insight into how resources are being used.

Targeted Assistance

• Support efforts to direct more funding to individuals and initiatives that work directly on the ground in Iran or among the Iranian diaspora, particularly those assisting political prisoners or documenting human rights abuses.

Evaluation of Recipients

• Advocate for a more thorough vetting process and clearer criteria for organizations and individuals seeking funding, to help ensure that resources are being used effectively and for their intended purposes.

Protection of Resources

• Encourage the creation of safeguards to prevent the potential misuse of funds, ensuring that aid truly supports those working for democracy and human rights in Iran.

Ensuring greater transparency and accountability will help guarantee that U.S. support meaningfully assists the Iranian people in their struggle for freedom. I believe that your leadership, Senator Rubio, and the guidance of the Department of Government Ethics can significantly contribute to ensuring that U.S. funds are used responsibly and effectively.

Thank you for your attention to this critical matter. I look forward to your continued leadership in supporting efforts to advance freedom and democracy in Iran.