United Nations Development Programme

United Nations agency focused on global development

Logo of the United Nations Development Programme

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is a global development network of the United Nations. It advocates for change and connects countries to knowledge, experience, and resources to help people build a better life. The UNDP is active in 170 countries and territories, working with them on their own solutions to global and national development challenges.

History

The UNDP was established in 1965 by the merger of the Expanded Programme of Technical Assistance and the Special Fund. Its creation was part of a broader effort to streamline and enhance the effectiveness of the United Nations' development activities.

Mission and Objectives

The UNDP's mission is to eradicate poverty, reduce inequalities, and build resilience so countries can sustain progress. It focuses on helping countries develop policies, leadership skills, partnering abilities, institutional capabilities, and build resilience to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Key Areas of Work

The UNDP's work is concentrated in three main focus areas:

Sustainable Development

The UNDP supports countries in achieving the SDGs, with a particular focus on poverty reduction, climate change adaptation, and sustainable energy.

Democratic Governance and Peacebuilding

The UNDP promotes democratic governance by supporting electoral processes, strengthening institutions, and fostering inclusive participation.

Climate and Disaster Resilience

The UNDP helps countries to prepare for and recover from natural disasters, and to build resilience against future risks.

Gender Equality

Map of the Gender Inequality Index, a measure used by the UNDP

The UNDP is committed to promoting gender equality and empowering women. It integrates gender equality into all aspects of its work and supports initiatives that address gender-based violence, women's economic empowerment, and political participation.

Funding and Partnerships

The UNDP is funded entirely by voluntary contributions from member states, multilateral organizations, and other partners. It works closely with governments, civil society, and the private sector to achieve its goals.

Related pages

• United Nations
• Sustainable Development Goals
• United Nations Environment Programme

References

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  Logo of the United Nations Development Programme

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  Map showing the Gender Inequality Index