NDI has actively supported democratic development in Pakistan since 1997, working with civil society organizations and political groups to strengthen democratic institutions and facilitate greater political participation of women and young people. As part of its extensive work in Pakistan on election support, civic participation and the strengthening of democratic institutions, NDI conducted programs in the former Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) before they merged with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and formed the Newly Merged Districts to support historic political and electoral reforms, including the introduction of the Political Parties Order that enabled candidates to openly run campaigns for the first time. NDI also engaged civic groups and government bodies on initiatives to promote the political and civic participation of women, supporting multi-stakeholder groups to increase awareness of political rights among women and amplify women’s voices in governance discussions.  

NDI currently provides technical assistance and support to promote peaceful political and electoral processes and improve democratic governance by enhancing oversight, transparency and accountability. NDI works with civil society organizations to conduct election violence monitoring; enhance political process monitoring; and increase civic and voter education among rural women and marginalized communities.