United Nations Democracy Fund

What’s in today’s article?

• What is UN Democracy Fund (UNDEF)?
• UNDEF Composition
• India’s Contribution to UNDEF

What is UN Democracy Fund (UNDEF)?

• The UNDEF was created by UN Secretary-General Kofi A. Annan in 2005 as a United Nations General Trust Fund to support democratization efforts around the world.
• It was welcomed by the United Nations General Assembly in the Outcome Document of the 2005 World Summit.
• UNDEF funds projects that empower civil society, promote human rights, and encourage the participation of all groups in democratic processes.
• The large majority of UNDEF funds go to local civil society organizations.
• In this way, UNDEF plays a novel and unique role in complementing the UN’s traditional work – work with Governments to strengthen democratic governance around the world.
• UNDEF depends entirely on voluntary contributions from Governments.
• Grants ranging from US$100,000 to US$300,000, support initiatives in the areas of –
  • Support for Electoral Processes
  • Women’s Empowerment
  • Media and Freedom of Information
  • Rule of Law and Human Rights
  • Strengthening Civil Society Interaction with Government
  • Youth Engagement

UNDEF Composition

• The Advisory Board, constituted by the Secretary General, includes eight largest Member State contributors and six other states to reflect diverse geographical representation.
• India has been a member of the Board since the beginning.
• The Advisory Board considers the proposals from NGOs and recommends proposals for approval by the Secretary General.

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India’s Contribution to UNDEF

• India gave $5 million to the fund in 2005, 2006, 2008, 2009 and 2011.
• The contributions began dipping from 2012 ($4.71 m) and the following year it was $1.85 million.
• After no contribution in 2017, India was back with $100,000 in 2018 and 2019. In 2020, 2021 and 2022, it gave $150,000.

Q1) What is the role of UNICEF?

UNICEF is mandated by the United Nations General Assembly to advocate for the protection of children’s rights, to help meet their basic needs and to expand their opportunities to reach their full potential.

Q2) How many total members are there on the UN Security Council?

The Council is composed of 15 Members: Five permanent members: China, France, Russian Federation, the United Kingdom, and the United States, and ten non-permanent members elected for two-year terms by the General Assembly

Source: What is the UN Democracy Fund, co-founded by India, which gives money to George Soros-linked bodies | UN.org