The United States has announced a $225 million investment to support emerging democracies as part of efforts to counter the rise of autocracies worldwide. This assistance package includes:
- $110 million in private-sector projects for Nepal, aimed at supporting small businesses and sustainable transportation.
- $145 million in US government funding to support job creation, accountable public finances, and other areas crucial to democracy.
- Grants from organizations like the Ford Foundation and Rockefeller Foundation to support civil society groups, rural electricity, and climate projects in countries including Moldova, Tanzania, and Zambia.
This initiative, known as the “Democracy Delivers” project, is designed to help democracies deliver essential services and tangible progress to their citizens, especially in countries experiencing democratic openings. It comes at a time when democracies around the world are facing challenges from authoritarian regimes, and the US aims to support and strengthen democratic institutions and processes.
The funding will assist countries like Nepal in their democratic transitions and promote good governance, economic development, and civil society engagement. The US is committed to ensuring that democracy delivers for all its citizens and remains dedicated to supporting democratic values globally.