About Us - UNDP Global Fund | Advancing Sustainable Development

Advancing Sustainable Development Worldwide

The UNDP Global Fund partners with governments, civil society, and communities to tackle the world's most pressing development challenges and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.

Our Focus Areas Support Our Work

Our Story

For over 50 years, UNDP has been at the forefront of global development efforts

A Legacy of Development Excellence

The United Nations Development Programme was established in 1965 by the United Nations General Assembly to help countries eradicate poverty and achieve sustainable human development. Over the decades, UNDP has grown to become the UN's global development network, advocating for change and connecting countries to knowledge, experience, and resources to help people build better lives.

The UNDP Global Fund was created as a specialized funding mechanism to accelerate progress on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It represents a unique partnership between UNDP, governments, philanthropic organizations, and the private sector, pooling resources and expertise to tackle complex development challenges at scale.

Today, we work in over 170 countries and territories, helping nations to build integrated, lasting solutions for people and planet. Our approach is rooted in the principle of leaving no one behind, with special attention to the most vulnerable populations.

Our Mission

To support countries in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals through integrated solutions that tackle complex development challenges. We help nations to build resilience, strengthen governance, promote inclusive growth, and protect the environment.

Our vision is a world where all people can live with dignity, opportunity, and hope for the future. We believe that sustainable development is the pathway to a more equitable, peaceful, and prosperous world for everyone, everywhere.

Our Focus Areas

Integrated approaches to sustainable development

Poverty Reduction

Implementing comprehensive strategies to eradicate poverty in all its dimensions, with targeted programs for the most vulnerable communities.

Gender Equality

Advancing women's empowerment and gender equality through policy reform, economic opportunities, and ending gender-based violence.

Climate Action

Supporting countries to transition to low-carbon, climate-resilient development pathways and implement the Paris Agreement.

Governance & Peacebuilding

Strengthening institutions, promoting rule of law, and supporting peaceful societies through inclusive governance approaches.

Health & Well-being

Improving access to quality healthcare services and strengthening health systems, with particular focus on HIV/AIDS, malaria, and tuberculosis.

Quality Education

Ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education and promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all.

Sustainable Development Goals

The 17 Global Goals that guide our work

SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure

SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities

SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production

SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions

Learn More About the SDGs

Global Leadership

Our executive leadership team guiding UNDP's global strategy

Achim Steiner

UNDP Administrator

Leads UNDP's global efforts to eradicate poverty, reduce inequalities, and achieve sustainable development.

Usha Rao-Monari

Associate Administrator

Oversees UNDP's operations, partnerships, and resource mobilization efforts worldwide.

Sarah Poole

Deputy Assistant Administrator

Leads UNDP's Global Policy Network and coordinates the organization's crisis response.

Haoliang Xu

Assistant Secretary-General

Directs UNDP's Bureau for Policy and Programme Support, driving innovation in development approaches.

Our Partners

Collaborating with governments, organizations, and communities worldwide

170+

Countries & Territories

50+

Years of Experience

$5.2B

Annual Portfolio

17K

Staff Worldwide

Impact Stories

Hear from communities and partners about our work

"UNDP's support has been instrumental in helping our country strengthen governance systems and build resilience against climate change. Their integrated approach addresses the root causes of development challenges."

Dr. Maria Rodriguez

Minister of Environment, Costa Rica

"Through UNDP's entrepreneurship program, I received training and seed funding to start my own business. Now I employ 12 people in my community and can provide for my family's future."

Amina Sow

Social Entrepreneur, Senegal

"The UNDP Global Fund's innovative financing mechanisms have allowed us to scale up our climate adaptation projects across vulnerable coastal communities in Southeast Asia."

Dr. Kenji Tanaka

Climate Adaptation Expert

Join Us in Building a Sustainable Future

Together, we can achieve the Sustainable Development Goals and create a world where everyone can thrive.

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