A “Youth for Change” camp hosted by NDI brought together young people from across Iraq in July to share ideas about problems affecting youth in their regions, to identify their view of Iraq’s top two issues of national concern and to strategize about solutions.

Eighty-three activists ranging in age from 18 to 25 attended the camp, part of NDI’s Youth Empowerment Program (YEP). It marked the first time that the young people in the program—from different regions, ethnic backgrounds and religious affiliations—had been able to interact in person and share ideas.

Despite widespread skepticism about U.S. democracy promotion, democracies remain the most effective form of government to foster peace, internal stability, and social and economic development. A new paper co-authored by Kenneth Wollack and Lorne Craner – the presidents of the National Democratic Institute and International Rpublican Institute, respectively – makes the case for America’s continuing engagement in democracy programs abroad and the opportunities and challenges that presents for the next administration.

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.  

Sixteen years after the fall of the Berlin Wall, most citizens in Central and Eastern Europe have seen steady political and economic gains. However, the Roma—among the region’s largest minority—remain politically marginalized.

While international efforts focus on improving Roma living conditions, the issue of political participation has not been adequately addressed. It is, after all, the sole means by which Roma themselves can address their long-term community needs in such critical areas as housing, education, employment and healthcare.