United Nations Democracy Fund
At the 2005 World Summit held at the United Nations in New York, Heads of
State and Government reaffirmed their commitment to promote democracy and human
rights, by welcoming “the establishment of a Democracy Fund at the United Nations 1”
(herein referred to as ‘UNDEF’).
UNDEF’s primary purpose is to strengthen the voice of civil society and ensure
the participation of all groups in democratic practices. The Fund complements current
UN efforts to strengthen and expand democracy worldwide and funds projects that
enhance democratic dialogue and support for constitutional processes, civil society
empowerment, including the empowerment of women, civic education and voter
registration, citizen’s access to information, participation rights and the rule of law in
support of civil society and transparency and integrity.
UNDEF is a Trust Fund established through voluntary contributions from
Member States, under the authority of the Secretary-General. UNDEF is guided by its
Advisory Board, which includes representatives of Member States, eminent academics
and global civil society leaders. Thus, participation in the activities of UNDEF bestows
prestige to all its stakeholders and signifies for its beneficiaries a high level of political
commitment to democratic values.
Click here for the proposal application.
