Sixty years of UNDP

Sixty years of UNDP

Six decades of partnership and pioneering solutions

In 2025 UNDP is marking its 60th anniversary. The organization was formed in 1965 by merging the United Nations Expanded Programme of Technical Assistance and the United Nations Special Fund. Its mandate - to help countries to eliminate poverty and achieve sustainable development through job creation, environmental protection, and the advancement of women as requirements for peace. Development impact, integration, efficiency, and accountability are central tenets that have defined UNDP from the beginning.

We have spent six decades working closely with national governments in programme countries and all development partners, particularly traditional donors who contributed significant financial resources. Through this solidarity, UNDP has made a difference in the lives of millions of people around the world.

Story

UNDP at 60

From the beginning UNDP has worked in partnership to build the foundations for human development and create opportunities for people to thrive.

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Timeline

UNDP 60: A story of human progress

For six decades, and on the request of national governments, UNDP has maintained a continuous presence in every region, from the smallest island states to the largest economies, from stable democracies to fragile contexts.

Overhead view of two large ships with a message about development and security.

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From prevention to recovery: UNDP's work in crisis

UNDP’s work on crisis prevention builds resilience so countries can withstand social and environmental shocks. But when crisis strikes, we stay. UNDP maintains operations in the world’s most challenging contexts.

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An elderly woman stands in a dimly lit room, conveying emotion and resilience.

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Trusted partners, transformative results: The power of development partnership

Behind every number is real impact. Trust drives everything we accomplish. From day one, our core funding partner countries have entrusted UNDP to deliver results worldwide. 30 years ago, many governments also chose to entrust their domestic resources through UNDP to achieve development at home.

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Aerial view of a bustling city with tall buildings and busy streets.

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More than numbers: UNDP's vision for human-centred development

As the world has evolved, so has UNDP. In 1990, our Human Development Report revolutionized how we measured progress – asking not just about GDP, but whether people live longer, healthier, more fulfilling lives.

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