Publication

This commentary examines how the US supports democrats and democratic movements around the world and offers recommendations to improve the delivery of US democracy assistance. It argues that the promotion of democracy is an important tool for advancing universal values and US interests, but bureaucracy related to such promotion is in need of reform. It argues that grant-making organizations such as the National Endowment for Democracy are better able to work in tough authoritarian regimes and that field-based operations are more appropriate for countries already on the road to change. It also suggests that US funding should be allocated accordingly.