The Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung in Mongolia

Mongolia has witnessed substantial democratisation since the political changes in 1990. The country stands out among the authoritarian regimes of Central Asia for its exemplary progress along the road to democracy, but it has now reached a political and economic crossroads. Either parliamentary democracy and the democratic rule of law are consolidated, or else the political system will fall increasingly under the dominant influence of a small elite with growing economic and political power.

The country's economic future depends very much on that choice. Robust, sustainable growth requires a structural and regional policy that will build on the exploitation of mineral deposits and agriculture to drive forward the industrialisation and expanding service sector from which citizens are increasingly benefiting. This will permit the gradual reduction of structural poverty and unemployment, establishing modest prosperity on a broad basis. Containing corruption and improving public services are indispensable factors in this process. They foster hopes for a better future among the majority of the population and strengthen confidence in democracy. Political conditions for progress in Mongolia remain positive, as the essential groundwork for more market economy, political pluralism and the democratic rule of law has been laid in political parties, government and the electorate.

The FES gears its work in Mongolia to political decision-makers, especially parliament, but also civil society, with the aim of both contributing to political, economic and social reform and assisting the democratic articulation of opinion within a democratic culture of informed debate that serves the common good. Strengthening the representation of workers' interests is a particular focus here. Achieving equal participation in political life for women also remains a goal in our work.

Since 1995 the foundation has operated an office run by local staff in the capital city Ulan Bator. Project management and national representation lie with the FES team leader in Beijing.