Mongolia is widely viewed as a beacon of democracy in the region. However, it is keen to improve its system of governance system through greater decentralisation, delegating decision-making power to local governments and communities, and empowering citizens in democratic processes.

Strengthening the governance of democratic institutions, particularly in relation to financial, economic social and environmental policies and implementation, is still a big challenge for Mongolia. In addressing this challenge, the President and the Government of Mongolia have approached Switzerland - one of the leaders in the world in terms of decentralisation and with a long history of direct democracy - to support its efforts to decentralise the governance system.

Knowing that Switzerland has much to offer in terms of direct democracy and citizen’s empowerment, SDC has reinforced governance as a complementary and additional domain in its main development programmes (Income and Employment and Natural Resources Management) in Mongolia. And in response to Mongolia’s request, SDC has launched a new Decentralisation and Governance Support Project to foster greater efficiency of resource allocation.

One of SDC’s most appreciated projects within the area of Governance is the One-Stop-Shop (OSS) Project, which is aimed at reducing administrative red tape and bureaucratic procedures in accessing public services. Since its launch in 2007, the project has been successful in its goal of rolling out OSS throughout Mongolia. The successful introduction of OSS has opened a window of opportunity for SDC to provide effective support for governance reform processes.

As well as supporting national government, SDC also sees Mongolia’s young and vibrant NGOs playing a role in the promotion of good governance, and thus there is a need to enhance their participation in social accountability as government watchdogs. SDC’s Civil Society Building Project, co-partnered with the World Bank, is aimed at strengthening Mongolia’s civil society by encouraging people to exercise their human rights and help ensure fair and good governance.

Ongoing projects under the Governance domain are:

• One-Stop-Shop Project
• Governance and Decentralisation Project
• Civil Society Building Project
• Scholarships