Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor
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Promoting freedom and democracy and protecting human rights around the world are central to U.S. foreign policy. The values captured in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and in other global and regional commitments are consistent with the values upon which the United States was founded centuries ago. The United States supports those persons who long to live in freedom and under democratic governments that protect universally accepted human rights. The United States uses a wide range of tools to advance a freedom agenda, including bilateral diplomacy, multilateral engagement, foreign assistance, reporting and public outreach, and economic sanctions. The United States is committed to working with democratic partners, international and regional organizations, non-governmental organizations, and engaged citizens to support those seeking freedom.
The Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights and Labor leads the U.S. efforts to promote democracy, protect human rights and international religious freedom, and advance labor rights globally.
World Press Freedom Day
Secretary Clinton (May 1): "The United States is proud to join the international community in celebrating World Press Freedom Day and the contributions that journalists make to advancing human dignity, liberty, and prosperity." Full Statement
Human Rights Commitments and Pledges of the United States of America
On March 31, Secretary Clinton and U.N. Ambassador Susan Rice announced that the U.S. will seek a seat this year on the UN Human Rights Council with the goal of working to make it a more effective body to promote and protect human rights. Media Note | Fact Sheet
Freedom of Religion
President Obama (Apr. 6): "Freedom of religion and expression lead to a strong and vibrant civil society that only strengthens the state… An enduring commitment to the rule of law is the only way to achieve the security that comes from justice for all people. Robust minority rights let societies benefit from the full measure of contributions from all citizens." Full Text
State Department Releases Human Rights Reports
Secretary Clinton (Feb. 25): "[H]uman progress depends on the human spirit, and this inescapable truth has never been more apparent than it is today. The challenges of this new century require us to summon the full range of human talents to move our nation and the world forward. Guaranteeing the right of every man, woman and child to participate fully in society and to live up to his or her God-given potential is an ideal that has animated our nation since its founding." Full Text | Reports | Video | Briefing by Acting Assistant Secretary Stewart
Reports
2008 Report on International Religious Freedom
2007 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices
Supporting Human Rights and Democracy: The U.S. Record 2006
2008 Country Reports on Advancing Freedom and Democracy
Ambassadorial Roundtable Series
Read about this program which fosters partnerships between newly-confirmed U.S. Ambassadors and human rights and democracy NGOs.
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