United Nations Development Programme

United Nations Development Programme

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the global development network of the United Nations (UN), advocating for change and connecting countries to knowledge, experience, and resources to help people build a better life. It provides expert advice, training, and grants support to developing countries, with increasing emphasis on assistance to the least developed countries.

History

The UNDP was founded on 22 November 1965 by the UN General Assembly. It merged two pre-existing UN organizations, the Expanded Programme of Technical Assistance (EPTA) and the United Nations Special Fund. The aim was to help developing countries to progress socio-economically by enhancing their human and institutional capacities.

Functions and Structure

The UNDP operates in 170 countries and territories, helping to achieve the eradication of poverty, and the reduction of inequalities and exclusion. It helps countries to develop policies, leadership skills, partnering abilities, institutional capabilities and build resilience in order to sustain development results.

The UNDP is headed by an Administrator, who is appointed by the UN Secretary-General. The Administrator is responsible for managing the UNDP's operations and staff. The UNDP also has an Executive Board, which is responsible for providing intergovernmental support to and supervision of the UNDP's activities.

Programmes and Initiatives

The UNDP's work is concentrated on four main areas: poverty reduction and achieving the Millennium Development Goals; democratic governance; crisis prevention and recovery; and environment and energy for sustainable development. It also encourages the protection of human rights and the empowerment of women in all its programmes.

Criticism and Controversy

Like many international organizations, the UNDP has been subject to criticism and controversy. Critics argue that the UNDP's programmes do not always benefit the poorest and most vulnerable in society. There have also been allegations of mismanagement and corruption within the organization.

See Also

• United Nations
• Millennium Development Goals
• Sustainable Development Goals