India on Wednesday made a voluntary contribution of US$ 150,000 to the United Nations Democracy Fund (UNDEF) for 2022-23.
Permanent Representative of India to the United Nations, Ambassador Ruchira Kamboj handed over the cheque to this effect to Executive Director of the United Nations Office of Partnerships at an event in New York which coincided with India’s Presidency of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for the month.
India is a founding partner and the third largest contributor to the UN Democracy Fund (UNDEF) which supports projects that strengthen the voice of civil society, promote human rights, and encourage the participation of all groups in democratic processes. India considers the Fund to be an effective instrument for the promotion of democratic values and processes.
Having contributed over US$ 32 million since its inception, New Delhi has underscored its steadfast commitment to democratic ideals and values as it plays a distinct role in complementing other UN efforts to strengthen democratic governance around the world.
UNDEF provides financial supports for projects in any of the six thematic areas viz. rule of law and human rights, women’s empowerment, youth engagement, strengthening civil society interaction with Government, media and freedom of information, and electoral processes. Over the years, more than 800 projects in around 120 countries have been supported by UNDEF in partnership with local civil society organizations.
India, which plays a prominent role in the UNDEF as a long-standing member of its Advisory Board, also acknowledges that sustained support for UNDEF is particularly important in this crucial time for democracy efforts worldwide.
