UNDP promotes human development. We seek to create opportunities through which people's abilities, talents and creativity can find full expression. We aspire to a world where people can better their lives in a manner of their own choosing. We recognize that development today must safeguard the options of future generations.
UNDP invests in people. We help countries to develop the capacity to manage their economies, fight poverty, ignorance and disease, conserve the environment, stimulate technological innovation and recognize and enhance the contributions of women to society.
UNDP builds partnerships to foster human development. We forge alliances with the people and governments of developing countries, with the donor community, with the specialized agencies of the United Nations and with private institutions and nongovernmental organizations.
UNDP works in more than 150 developing countries and territories. Through our worldwide network of offices-and in dialogue with governments and other development partners-UNDP supports programs for human development. These spring from national priorities and are shaped by local culture. Beyond this, UNDP manages an increasingly diverse range of development services through its country offices.
UNDP plays a leading role in coordinating the development efforts of the United Nations system. In times of disaster-natural or human-UNDP helps orchestrate the United Nations' response in the field.
UNDP operates across national boundaries. We sponsor programs that are regional, interregional and global in scope. We promote the sharing of experience among developing countries and draw international attention to issues of global concern.
UNDP is universal and politically neutral. We receive voluntary contributions from nearly every country in the world. In allocating these resources, UNDP favors the poorest countries.
UNDP is people serving people. We are men and women, from all parts of the world, who value the qualities of professionalism, leadership and integrity. In the years ahead, UNDP will strive for excellence and prepare for change. We will advocate the full participation of all people in the pursuit of human progress.
From the United Nations Development Program, Statement of Purpose.
