Allowing for migration - both within and between countries - has the potential to increase people’s

freedom and improve the lives of millions
around the world, according to the 2009 Human Development Report.

Migration can expand their choices - in terms of incomes, accessing

services and participation - but the opportunities open to people vary

enormously.

• The full report (in several languages including Portuguese)
• Human Development Indicators
• Summary

"The last year held great promise for developing countries in their efforts to achieve the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and other development objectives. In early 2007, the world economy was still in its third year of exceptionally rapid growth, progress which has had a positive impact on poverty reduction in general, and on the performance of the least developed countries, in particular sub-Saharan African countries grew, on average, at more than six percent in 2007. Robust growth in a number of large developing countries, led by China, India and other members of the “emerging South,” gave further proof that rapid advancement towards reducing poverty and achieving the MDGs is possible."

Kemal Dervis, UNDP Administrator

Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) are playing a fundamental role in expanding and developing democracy. The political, economic and social reforms that are taking place throughout the world have highlighted the need to support civil society so that it can participate effectively in decision-making processes and in the implementation and monitoring of public policies and programmes.