National Endowment for Democracy (NED)

The National Endowment for Democracy (NED) is a private, non-profit organisation created in 1983.  

The purpose of this organisation is to strengthen democratic institutions around the world through nongovernmental efforts.

The Endowment is guided by the belief that freedom is a universal human aspiration that can be realised through the development of democratic institutions, procedures, and values.

Every democracy evolves according to the needs and traditions of diverse political cultures. By supporting this process, the Endowment helps strengthen the bond between indigenous democratic movements abroad and the people of the United States - a bond based on a common commitment to representative government and freedom as a way of life.

For more information about the National Endowment for Democracy please visit http://www.ned.org/

European Cultural Foundation (ECF)

The European Cultural Foundation is one of the leading independent organisations devoted to cultural development, and is a passionate advocate of cultural cooperation.

ECF campaigns for, initiates, develops and supports cultural cooperation activities throughout Europe. This foundation develops new cultural experience and media activities by offering grants and by initiating and coordinating programmes for organisations and individuals. ECF is also actively involved in cultural policy development, particularly for the integration of the European society.

The European Cultural Foundation works in partnership with other leading European cultural organisations.

For more information about the European Cultural Foundation please visit http://www.eurocult.org/