Overview

Poll results consistently show that political parties in Latin America enjoy the lowest level of credibility of all democratic institutions among the people of the region. Because of the unique and indispensable role that political parties play in democracy, their lack of credibility in the region has contributed to a crisis of democratic governance and representation.

In response to these challenges, NDI launched the Political Party Network (PPN) in 1999 as a regional initiative to strengthen political parties. The PPN seeks to build on NDI’s political party assistance expertise by fostering an exchange of experiences and materials to motivate parties to explore more modern, transparent and responsive political practices.

An interactive website, www.ndipartidos.org, provides easy access to NDI’s clearinghouse of political party training materials and other documents on topics including internal democracy, transparency and outreach to underrepresented sectors. The PPN has proven to be a good source of information for political activists interested in engaging in party reform initiatives.

The Network also serves as a forum for parties to share innovative party renewal ideas and as a support network for reform-minded political leaders, in particular those who have participated in NDI’s Political Leadership Program and Program for Party Renewal.

Beginning in 2007, NDI will provide technical assistance through the PPN program to political parties in countries where the Institute doesn’t have an active political parties program. This assistance will be provided in response to specific requests by political parties and based on NDI’s assessment of each party’s needs and the potential impact of NDI’s intervention.

The Political Party Network Website

Contact Information