Lesson Learned: In some countries, working to promote democracy, community activists may often find themselves operating in difficult circumstances. However trying to circumvent procedures can be counter-productive. The expedient of sending trainers to one country on tourist visas when work visas were denied – placed the trainers, the trainees and the grantee at risk. When working in difficult environments, do not engage in practices that may put community activists, the grantee or other project participants at risk.