CONDUCT RESEARCH, REPORT, DEVELOP AND HANDLE THE WORKSHOP ON DISRUPTING THE ABILITY OF PROHIBITED PROLIFERATOR STATE-BACKED ILLICIT PRIVATE MILITARY COMPANIES (PMCS)

In support of the U.S. Department of State’s Office of Cooperative Threat Reduction, CRDF Global will
implement a two-day workshop on disrupting the ability of prohibited proliferator state-backed illicit
private military companies (PMCs). This project represents a high-impact approach to engaging key Western
Balkans government officials, military and security experts, and investigative journalists to counter
recruitment activities of proliferator state-backed PMCs. This project will provide participants an in-depth
training and open-source research tools to enhance the capacities to counter advanced convention weapon
transfers, influence operations, and other proliferation linked activities conducted by PMCs, funded by
proliferator states. The in-person workshop will provide participants with a deeper understanding of how to
recognize and counter illicit recruitment activities through effective engagement, messaging, and
enforcement, and train them to identify red flags, conduct open-source investigations and educate them on
relevant international norms and compliance, including Montreux Document and International Code of
Conduct.

The Contractor will undertake the responsibility of (a) conducting landscape analysis of current situation in
the sector including in the information/media space in Western Balkans countries in terms of analyzing the
prevailing narratives and key propaganda messages used to promote state-backed PMCs as well as the public
opinion on that matter. (b) using the data analyzed to develop presentation materials and related content and
executing a comprehensive two-day workshop in Sarajevo or Banja Luka, Bosnia and Herzegovina. The
workshop will include in-depth examination of case studies focusing on research methodologies employed in
tracking key indicators indicative of the presence of Private Military Companies (PMCs) as well as on the tools
to conduct effective open source investigations, and counter negative information influence in the domain.
The Contractor will specifically delve into the identification of financial flows and beneficial ownership
networks associated with PMCs, emphasizing the recognition of key entities and individuals involved.
Furthermore, the workshop will scrutinize the logistics mechanisms facilitating the proliferation of Advanced
Weaponry Components (AWC) and related elements in regions where PMCs are deployed. The Contractor will
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develop and deliver informative sessions, disseminate relevant leave-behind materials, and engage
participants through interactive discussions. The deliverables will include comprehensive workshop modules,
participant materials, and a post-workshop report detailing key insights and recommendations. The
Contractor(s) shall also set metrics and utilize necessary tools to analyze the effectiveness of the intervention.
All deliverables and services provided by the Contractor shall adhere to the agreed-upon timelines and quality
standards outlined in this Statement of Work.