National Endowment for Democracy

Description

Since 1983, the National Endowment for Democracy (NED) has advanced democracy around the world by supporting people in their pursuit of good governance, economic freedom, independent media, and the dignity afforded by human rights. The NED is dedicated to fostering a wide range of democratic institutions abroad, including political parties, trade unions, free markets, and business organizations. The NED works through its four core institutes, National Democratic Institute for International Affairs, the International Republican Institute, the Solidarity Center, and the Center for International Private Enterprise, and by providing direct funding to local organizations.

What does it buy?

The NED’s work helps societies protect the fundamental rights of citizens, prevent conflict, spur economic growth, and advance human rights. The Endowment’s nongovernmental character gives it a flexibility that makes it possible to work in some of the world’s most difficult circumstances and to respond quickly when there is an opportunity for political change. NED is dedicated to fostering the growth of a wide range of democratic institutions abroad, including political parties, trade unions, free markets, and business organizations, as well as the many elements of a vibrant civil society that ensure human rights, independent media, and the rule of law.

Why is it important?

• Democratic governance and human rights are critical components of sustainable development and lasting peace. Countries that have inefficient government institutions, rampant corruption, and weak rule of law are more at risk of civil war and extreme criminal violence than other developing countries.
• The NED supports more than 1,600 grants every year to fund the projects of non-governmental groups abroad who are working for Democracy, Rights, and Governance goals in more than 90 countries.
• While global democracy has slid backward in recent years, it remains at a historic peak. Positive change such as the democratic headway made in Ethiopia and Tunisia is evidence that democracy efforts work and deserve long-term U.S. investment.

Why should Americans care?

• Funds provided by the NED advance American ideals where they are needed most, offering solidarity and assistance to those working for freedom and human rights in isolation. The NED strengthens the bond between burgeoning democratic movements and the American people, elevating shared commitment to representative government and freedom.
• The NED focuses many of its resources on the remaining communist and authoritarian countries—including China, North Korea, and Cuba—as well as those sliding toward authoritarianism.

What more could be done?

• Over half of the world’s population is under age 30. Additional investment in the NED would help youth around the world become more engaged in the political process, resulting in more vibrant, resilient, and inclusive democracies.
• With the emergence of malignant global actors who aim to destabilize democracies and electoral processes, there is a crucial need to support all aspects of civil society. The NED seeks to promote freedom of information, the rule of law, political processes, civic education, freedom of association, more capable institutions, human rights, and developing market economies.
• When women participate as decision-makers, the economic and social well-being of their country grows and more inclusive governing processes take root. Yet, women around the world continue to struggle for the right to vote, run for office, and serve as leaders in public life. The NED works to increase female political participation and end violence against women and girls.

*These figures have been updated from the print version.