Democracy, Rights & Governance

In every region of the world, democracy is under attack by authoritarian leaders who demand unchecked power. For many citizens, freedom of expression has been stifled, making organizing for democracy even more difficult. However, democracy, a government by the people and for the people, is resilient. Despite a narrative that democracies are not delivering, people around the world consistently voice support for democracy and other processes that enable more citizen engagement.

U.S. investments in democracy, rights, and governance (DRG) expand space for vibrant civil societies and independent media; strengthen political and government institutions to be responsive to citizens’ needs; promote transparency and accountability; strengthen the rule of law; foster equitable economic growth; promote tolerance and inclusiveness; protect human and labor rights; and support credible elections.

The U.S. has an interest in promoting democracy because a world full of democratic governments is safer, more prosperous, and more stable. Programs and diplomacy that support democracy, human rights, and good governance are cost effective investments in America’s long-term interests.

Fast Facts

• 2023 is slated to bring many consequential elections, including in Indonesia, Nigeria, Thailand, Malaysia, and Sudan.
• Countries undergoing the process of democratization experience a 20% increase in GDP over a 25-year period.
• More countries are trending autocratic, with 70% of the world’s population living in autocracy in 2021 compared to 49% in 2011.
• Non-democratic governments are increasingly trying to silence dissent beyond their borders and coordinate with other non-democratic governments.
• 71% of the American public support U.S. government action to bolster democracy and human rights overseas. From the same survey, 0ver 84% agree that “when other countries become democratic, it contributes to our own well-being.”

Key U.S. Strategies & Programs

Strategies:

• Democracy versus autocracy features prominently in the 2022 National Security Strategy
• U.S. Strategy on Countering Corruption

Programs:

• Presidential Initiative for Democratic Renewal
• USAID DRG Programs
• Bureau of Democracy, Rights, and Labor programs