MEDIA RELEASE
Released By:
Downer
Australia will increase our support to fragile countries to help them improve governance and the delivery of essential services.
We will be a founding member of the Partnership for Democratic Governance to be launched on 1 October 2007, in New York.
The partnership will assist countries to close gaps in essential government services by providing access to the best international expertise and guidance.
It will respond to demand from client countries and offer them choice in the scope of assistance and the expertise on offer.
Delivering core government services, such as customs, revenue management and maintaining economic stability, present significant challenges in countries where conflict, instability, or a lack of skilled personnel limit effective government.
This is a major challenge to the stability and development prospects of many countries worldwide.
We expect the Partnership for Democratic Governance will make a strong contribution to improving the accountability and responsiveness of governments to their citizenry, which lies at the heart of strengthening governance and delivering development outcomes.
Australia will provide $2 million over three years to support the establishment of the partnership.
Other founding members include the United States of America, Canada, and international organisations including the United Nations Development Program and the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development.
Media inquiries:
Malcolm Cole (Mr Downer's office) 02 6277 7500
AusAID (Public Affairs) 0417 680 590