ICU is a non-profit organization established in 1966 that carries out development projects in countries with limited resources and promotes their self-development. The fundamental principle that guides ICU in pursuing its objectives is the focus on the dignity of human beings, understood as subjects accustomed to learning and responsible for their own future and for that of the community they live in. The purpose of ICU is to promote self-development in the countries in which it operates. This is why it always implements activities that strongly rely on education and training of local population and institutions. In fact, capacity building, understood as transfer of technology, methodology and know-how, is a fundamental component of ICU strategy in its relations with local partners. The technical assistance the Institute provides through its projects is always aimed at improving local skills and operational capabilities. ICU has so far realized about 500 Cooperation and Development projects in 44 countries for a total budget of 160 million euro.