NDI has conducted democracy assistance programs in Belarus since 2000, partnering with citizens who want to build more democratic political institutions. The Institute has helped civil society organizations improve their advocacy efforts, including through an online “reverse town hall” platform that gives citizens opportunities to pose questions to politicians. In partnership with political parties, NDI has also helped  political leaders and activists better  represent citizens’ interests and improve multi-party cooperation. NDI’s support for independent election monitors has engaged more citizens in overseeing elections and documenting and publicizing the violations they observe. Finally, NDI has also sponsored independent public opinion research and party assessments to equip democratic actors with the information they need to more effectively address citizen concerns and improve their organizing efforts. The Institute’s programs in Belarus are designed to help political and civic leaders identify and seize opportunities to promote democratic reform and draw more Belarusians into public discourse.