The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the development arm of the United Nations, was designated by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) as one of its three Implementing Agencies. With its special mandate from the United Nations General Assembly and global conventions, UNDP works to advance the UN agenda on development. By drawing extensively on its broad network of country offices and country contacts, special knowledge of development issues, thematic expertise and country-specific experience, UNDP assists countries to achieve their development goals. UNDP provides support to countries in the development of effective policies and institutions, such as integrating environmental and development objectives into national development agendas and processes, to protect the environment as well as reduce poverty.

The Global Mercury Project is one of the UNDP-GEF projects in the international waters focal area.
These projects aim at achieving a comprehensive, ecosystem-based approach to the sustainable management of international waters, incorporating both developmental and ecological needs.