Paragon’s team will handle the PEP screening process for you using the Dow Jones RiskCenter platform. We verify matches in communication with the foreign grantee, and generate a written report for your file.

PEP screening can complement other forms of screening employed by corporate foundations and other grantmakers, such as watchlist screening or adverse media screening (AMS). A Politically Exposed Person (PEP) is an individual who has been granted a prominent public function. Due to a PEP's position and influence, transacting with a PEP can increase the risk of exposure to bribery and corruption. The Financial Action Task Force provides the following:

• Foreign PEPs are individuals who are or have been entrusted with prominent public functions by a foreign country, for example Heads of State or of government, senior politicians, senior government, judicial or military officials, senior executives of state owned corporations, important political party officials.

• Domestic PEPs are individuals who are or have been entrusted domestically with prominent public functions, for example Heads of State or of government, senior politicians, senior government, judicial or military officials, senior executives of state owned corporations, important political party officials.

PEP screening can serve as an important tool in helping to prevent violations under the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA). For background and resources related to the FCPA see:

• A Resource Guide to the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act

• Good Practice Guidelines on Conducting Third-Party Due Diligence

Paragon's team takes the following actions on your behalf:

• Reach out to the grantee organization to secure key information for screening purposes, including the names of board members, founders, and key staff.

• Screen for PEPs

• Communicate with the grantee to confirm any PEP matches

• Generate a report outlining the findings

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Read Paragon's article in PEAK Grantmaking:  Cross-Border Philanthropy and Counterterrorism Regulations: Guidance for U.S. Grantmakers

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