Minister of International Development Anne Kristen Sydnes welcomes the UNDP Centre for Democratic Governance to Oslo

The UN Development Programme (UNDP) will be establishing its global Centre for Democratic Governance in Oslo. This is the agency that will be in charge of the UNDP’s efforts to promote good governance in its 134 programme countries. The UNDP wishes to take advantage of the knowledge and expertise available from Norwegian research institutions in this area.

"We are pleased that the UNDP is locating this facility in Norway," said International Development Minister Anne Kristin Sydnes. "The Oslo Centre for Democratic Governance will play an important role in international development efforts for years to come."

International Development Minister Sydnes and UNDB Administrator Mark Malloch Brown signed the agreement establishing the Centre today. Ms. Sydnes stated at a press conference in Oslo that Norway has been one of the UNDP’s most important supporters since its creation in 1965. What is unusual about the UNDP is that it enjoys the confidence of programme countries and donor countries alike, giving it a unique legitimacy.

"Efforts to eradicate poverty and promote democratic governance in developing countries are essential steps on the road to sustainable development. The UNDP is in a unique position to provide advice and financial assistance in the effort to implement democratic reforms. Norway will continue to support the UNDP in this area," said Ms. Sydnes.