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UN Democracy Fund invites project proposals

New Delhi - The UN Democracy Fund (UNDEF), to which India has contributed $10 million, has invited proposals for funding projects aimed at strengthening democratic dialogue and civil society empowerment in the world.

Interested government agencies and independent civil society organisations can make their project applications by May 15.

'Given India's deep-rooted commitment to the principles and values of democracy, the government of India hopes that institutions, civil society organisations and other agencies with relevant capabilities will send meaningful project proposals in large numbers for consideration by the UNDEF,' an external affairs ministry press release said here Thursday.

India was one of the first countries to support the creation of the UN Democracy Fund last year. Prime Minister Manmohan Singh participated in a ceremony to launch the UNDEF in New York on Sep 14, last year.

The US and India have also agreed to promote democracy in the world by strengthening democratic institutions and practices - a point stressed by US President George Bush when he visited India in March.

The US, India and Qatar - the largest donors - have contributed an initial $10 million. The US pledged an additional $7.9 million for this year. Australia has responded with $7.5 million.

India is represented on the fund's advisory board by its Permanent Representative to the United Nations in New York.

For project guidelines and details, click here.

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