Book excerpt: The evolution of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is detailed in this simple, coherent, and richly rewarding narrative. Discussing the origins of the program, this book details how the UNDP was established in 1966 and financed by voluntary contributions from its members, and how it is a preeminent, universal, and neutral organization that provides grants aid in the form of technical assistance to developing countries. The intent is to foster institution building, capacity building, sustained human development, and eradication of poverty, especially in low-income and least developed countries. The UNDP’s stellar achievements have been overshadowed by political and other activities at the United Nations, but this book provides the first authentic and comprehensive history of the UNDP based solely on primary official documents.