IPA's Citizen Security Research Initiative (CSRI) supports rigorous impact evaluations, pilot studies, infrastructure and public goods projects, and foundational and contextual research to inform policies and programs on building safer communities and strengthening justice and law enforcement systems. Funding for CSRI comes from the United States Department of State's Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL).

Supported projects will generate actionable evidence to inform policy and programming in the citizen security and justice sector, with a focus on studies that challenge common beliefs, pioneer innovative interventions, and produce evidence where little currently exists. Priority areas of research include:

• Countering organized crime
• Combating drug trafficking and production
• Preventing crime and violence
• Strengthening law enforcement and criminal justice institutions

CSRI’s first call for proposals is now open. Proposals are due April 15, 2026. Please reach out to justice@poverty-action.org with any questions.

Dates for Round I

• March 2, 2026: Competitive round announced
• April 15, 2026: Proposal submission deadline
• July 2026: Awards announced