Since 1984, efforts to advance democracy abroad have been funded largely by government. But public funds can no longer be the only source of support. The challenges facing democracy in the 21st century demand that resources be mobilized quickly to respond to opportunities and reduce the risk of conflict. Investment now by the private sector in NDI's work will help strengthen democracy tomorrow.
The Democratic Century Fund (DCF) was
created in 1998 to help NDI respond more
quickly and with greater flexibility to the
challenges faced by democrats. By working with a range of
concerned private donors, the goal of the DCF is
to provide a diversified source of funding that
can be used wherever the need is greatest.
Contributions to the Democratic Century Fund are being used
to support programs in our four priority areas:
Opening Closed Societies
We must be prepared to move quickly when opportunities arise
in nations under authoritarian rule. China's engagement in the global marketplace,
Cuba's growing internal democratic community, the entrepreneurial energy of Vietnam, and the courageous political opposition in Burma could all be powerful
transforming influences. We must seize opportunities for democratic
development in these and other closed societies.
Strengthening New Democracies
Investments must continue to be made in countries such as Russia,
Indonesia, Mexico, Nigeria and South Africa, where nascent political institutions
need support to secure a stable democratic future. Even in
the most promising new democracies there is always a danger of setbacks,
with severe consequences.
Preventing Crises
The unusual histories and circumstances of Bosnia-Hercegovina,
Northern Ireland, and the West Bank and Gaza Strip pose special challenges
to democracy in the very near future. Immediate assistance
to democrats in these places could greatly diminish the risk of
conflict.
Breaking the Grip of Corruption
New democracies from Russia to Nigeria to Paraguay face the threat
of corruption. Leaders in these and other countries working
to strengthen the rule of law and encourage standards of public
conduct need immediate and ongoing support to meet this daunting
challenge.
Contributing to NDI through the Democratic Century Fund is a vote of confidence
in the expansion of democracy and a critical investment in securing
peace, prosperity, stability and human dignity. By forming new and
innovative public-private partnerships with individuals, corporations, unions,
foundations and governments we can continue to meet
the challenges of the next century.
Contact Information
For more information, please contact:
Printer-friendly version
