Introduction

The GTF was, and remains, a one-off Fund. All funding decisions have been taken and there are currently no plans to issue any further calls for proposals.

The ability of citizens to make their voices heard and hold their governments to account is fundamental to good government. Its absence fosters an environment in which corruption can flourish, and citizens are unable to assess the decisions of their leaders, or make informed choices about who they elect to serve as their representatives.

To address some of these issues, DFID created a £130 million Governance and Transparency Fund (GTF). The fund has been designed to help citizens hold their governments to account through strengthening the wide range of groups that can empower and support them.

More than 400 civil society, media, and other organisations from around the world expressed interest in the fund when it was announced.  After an extensive appraisal process, 38 organisations were selected for funding in 2008.  Their activities currently encompass a wide range of governance issues and can be linked to more than 600 local organisations in over 100 countries.

The GTF is increasing the voice of ordinary citizens around the world.  It assists local organisations such as the National Taxpayers Association improve access to education in rural communities by monitoring local government spending on school construction in Kenya. It also enables international organisations like Amnesty International, Global Witness and Water Aid to work with dozens of civil society partners on issues concerning human rights, natural resource management, and access to basic services for disadvantaged communities.