The Governance and Public Policy program supports activities in the United States and developing countries to improve the way governing institutions function, public policies are formulated, individuals are trained for public service, and citizens participate in the democratic process. The program also works to strengthen philanthropy and the nonprofit sector in the United States and abroad.

The program's underlying goal is to bolster democratic institutions and broaden the base of citizen participation in government, enabling people with different views and socioeconomic backgrounds to influence the decisions that affect their lives. In practice, opportunities for such participation vary widely from country to country. The Foundation adapts its strategies accordingly.

In countries still under one-party rule, the Foundation seeks to strengthen non-governmental organizations, support their public policy research and analysis, and help them become more representative of the citizenry at large. In nations just beginning to hold free elections, the Foundation assists programs that inform citizens about the way political and electoral processes work. In countries where state or provincial and local governments are experimenting with ways to provide public services, the Foundation funds evaluation and in some cases replication of exemplary government projects.

In nations with more fully developed democratic systems, the Foundation focuses on building the kind of governmental infrastructure that supports civil and human rights. It also funds the training and career development of public officials and efforts to enhance the effectiveness of NGOs. In recent years, the Foundation has supported the development of indigenous philanthropic organizations in developing countries.

In the United States, the Foundation is particularly interested in helping state and local governments improve their public services, in broadening voter registration, and in encouraging public policies that are sensitive to the country's diverse groups. The Foundation is also concerned that elective and appointive government offices be open to minorities and women. Strengthening community foundations continues to be a priority.

In 1992 the Governance and Public Policy program made grants totaling $31.8 million. The program supports work in five broad areas. Illustrative examples are discussed below.