At great personal risk and sacrifice, Aung San Suu Kyi demonstrated extraordinary courage in promoting peaceful political reform in Burma.

Oswaldo Paya Sardinas has transformed his dream of peaceful, democratic reform in Cuba into the reality of concrete civic advocacy.

In 1997, Paya founded the Varela Project, which effectively uses nonviolent means to promote human rights. His dedication to the principles of democracy and social justice has inspired fellow citizens as well as democrats around the world.  

President Bill Clinton’s advocacy of democracy and human rights has provided vital support to democratic movements worldwide.

As the leader and conscience of Czechoslovakia’s “velvet revolution”, Vaclav Havel has become an inspiration to those throughout the world who share his values and ideals.

As a playwright, philosopher, political prisoner and human rights activist, Havel’s peaceful but persistent struggle for democratic society came to symbolize Eastern and Central Europe’s rebellion against repression. On New Year’s Day, 1990, President Havel addressed his nation with these words:

“People, your government has returned to you!”

Jimmy Carter has received international acclaim for his activities as a former president. His efforts to support free and fair elections have enabled countries to initiate transitions to democratic governance.

Amat Al-Aleem Alsoswa was Yemen’s first minister for human rights and the first female cabinet member in the country’s history.

Lorne Craner returned to the International Republican Institute (IRI) as president in August, 2004, following his unanimous selection by IRI’s board of directors. He has led the strengthening of IRI’s programs in countries such as China, Colombia, Pakistan, Russia and Turkey. Since 2004, IRI has broadened its work in areas such as governance, women’s participation, access for the disabled, and the use of technology in democracy promotion. IRI has also built an unprecedented level of cooperation with U.S. and foreign democracy building organizations.