The UN Democracy Fund supports civil society projects around the world that strengthen the voice of civil society, promote human rights, and encourage the participation of all groups in democratic processes. The large majority of UNDEF projects go to local NGOs in Africa, Asia and Latin America -- both in the transition and consolidation phases of democratization. UNDEF also supports a number of major global and regional projects with a normative and policy focus. In these ways, UNDEF plays a novel and distinct role in complementing the UN’s other work -- the work with Governments -- to strengthen democratic governance around the world. It is an innovation at the heart of the United Nations.
The 1st Round of UNDEF funding began in 2007 for proposals that were submitted at the end of 2006. UNDEF received 1,303 applications of which it funds 122 projects. The total amount approved for funding is $35,201,230.
The 2nd Round of UNDEF funding began in 2008 for proposals that were submitted at the end of 2007. UNDEF received 1,873 applications of which it funds 82 projects. The total amount approved for funding is $23,695,000.
The 3rd Round of UNDEF funding began in 2009 for proposals that were submitted at the end of 2008. UNDEF received 2,143 applications of which it funds 67 projects. The total amount approved for funding is $18,855,367.
The projects database lists all projects funded by UNDEF so far, and makes it possible to conduct a more specific search using a combination of criterias.