ISO Action Plan for Developing Countries 2021-2025

Support for the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) Action Plan for Developing Countries (APDC) during the period 2021 - 2025. The contribution aims to strengthen developing countries' national standards and quality assurance systems through initiatives that contribute to increased knowledge and competence among national standardization bodies and other relevant stakeholders in developing countries. The APDC focuses on technical support for national standardization institutes, skills development through, for example, training, mentorship programs, regional and global exchanges, and support for increased and more effective participation in international standardization work in areas which are prioritized by the countries, based on their needs and interests. This is a global effort directed towards ISO member organizations stemming from 112 developing countries, with a focus on the 32 Least Developed Countries (LDCs). Sida's financing is SEK 33,500,000 over 5 years and goes to APDC in its entirety. Sida funding accounts for 41% of the total funding, with ISO and its members accounting for the remaining 59%. ISO's capacity development unit is responsible for the implementation and follow-up of APDC.