UN Secretary-General laid the foundation of UNDEF in the year 2005 as a United Nations General Trust Fund to support democratization efforts throughout the world.
UNDEF supports projects which strengthen the voice of civil society, encourage human rights and support the participation of all groups in democratic processes. The majority of UNDEF funds go to local civil society organizations both in the transition and consolidation phases of democratization. In this manner, UNDEF plays highly significant role in complementing the UN’s traditional work. The work with Government comprises strengthening democratic governance throughout the world.
UNDEF projects are two years long and fall under one or more of six main areas:
- Community development
- Rule of law and human rights
- Tools for democratization
- Women
- Youth
- Media
UNDEF grants range from US$50,000 to US$500,000. Applications undergo highly rigorous and competitive selection process, as UNDEF receives an average of about 2,000 applications a year and only some 60-70 are selected. UNDEF was one of only two UN entities mentioned by President Barack Obama in his speech to the UN General Assembly on 23 September, 2010.
For further information, visit the link.
