The bureaus and offices reporting to the Under Secretary for Civilian Security, Democracy, and Human Rights contribute to the security of the American people and nations around the world by assisting countries to build more democratic, secure, stable, and just societies.
To achieve our mission, we work together, along with other U.S. Government agencies and foreign partners, to prevent and respond to conflict, promote peace and genuine stability, strengthen and develop the rule of law, achieve accountability for atrocities, counter terrorism and violent extremism, build democratic institutions, deepen respect for universal human rights, strengthen civilian protection and security, and advance the United States' humanitarian policies, practices, and programs around the world.
Maria Otero was sworn in as Under Secretary of State on August 10, 2009. Her tenure ended on February 4, 2013. She oversaw and coordinated U.S. foreign relations on the spectrum of civilian security issues across the globe, including democracy, human rights, population, refugees, trafficking in persons, rule of law, counter-narcotics, crisis prevention and response, global criminal justice, and countering violent extremism. She also served as the President’s Special Coordinator for Tibetan Issues.