The United Nations Democracy Fund invites civil society organizations to apply for funding

The United Nations Democracy Fund (UNDEF) invites civil society organizations to apply for funding for projects to advance and support democracy. Project proposals may be submitted on-line between:

15 November 2011 and 31 December 2011
(www.un.org/democracyfund)

UNDEF supports projects 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 funds go to local civil society organizations -- both in the transition and consolidation phases of democratization. In this way, UNDEF plays a novel and distinct role in complementing the UN's more traditional work -- the work with Governments -- to strengthen democratic governance around the world.

This is the Sixth Round of Funding to be launched by UNDEF, which provides grants of up to US$500,000 per project. In five Rounds of Funding so far, UNDEF has supported more than 350 projects in 150 countries at a total amount of almost US$120 million. Applications are subject to a highly rigorous and competitive selection process, with about three per cent of all applications approved for funding. 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

You can find guidelines, FAQs and lessons learned from previous rounds at http://www.un.org/democracyfund/Applicants/applicants_index.html. Those who plan to apply are strongly encouraged to visit this page as soon as possible to familiarize yourself with what is required.

Only on-line applications in either English or French will be accepted.