Human Rights: A Cornerstone of U.S. Foreign PolicyBureau of Public AffairsWashington, DC December 8, 2005 ![]() "Freedom is the non-negotiable demand of human dignity." Promoting human rights and democracy is a cornerstone of American foreign policy. The Department of State integrates democracy and human rights promotion into all aspects of U.S. foreign policy by supporting freedom-loving people around the world in their efforts to protect human rights. The U.S. Aims To:
In Promoting Human Rights and Democracy, the United States Employs:DiplomacyAmerican officials engage other governments, multilateral institutions, international organizations, non-governmental organizations, and individuals around the world to encourage improved human rights practices and transition to democracy. Human Rights ReportsThe State Department’s Country Reports on Human Rights Practices, the International Religious Freedom Report, the Trafficking in Persons Report, and Supporting Human Rights and Democracy: The U.S. Record measure the human rights performances of countries worldwide and U.S. assistance in building democracy. These annual reports receive serious attention in the United States and around the world and have helped bring about democratic and human rights change. Democracy and Governance ProgramsThe State Department and the U.S. Agency for International Development provide technical assistance to help governments and civil societies around the world strengthen their democratic skills. Programs are organized around the core concepts of accountable government, human rights, rule of law, fair elections, free media, civil society, and citizen participation. Assistance Based on PerformanceFor governments that show the will to reform, the United States offers financial, technical and political assistance. For governments lacking the will to reform, the United States can withhold support. In either case, the United States provides assistance to those people within a society who are working peacefully for democratic change. Supporting Human Rights
Promoting Democracy
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