The Westminster Foundation for Democracy (WFD) was established in 1992 to support the consolidation of democratic practices and institutions in developing democracies. WFD specialises in parliamentary strengthening and political party development; works at national, regional and local levels; and is uniquely placed to draw directly on the expertise and involvement of the Westminster political parties.
As well as being sponsored by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) the Foundation is accountable to Parliament for its expenditure. It also contributes to the FCO’s aim of making ‘globalisation work for sustainable development in the UK and internationally by promoting democracy and the rule of law, good economic and environmental governance and security of long-term energy supply, measured by specific underlying targets', but remains independent of government in setting its priorities and programmes.