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.

On Aug. 7, Craner and Wollack presented the paper – titled "New Directions for Democracy Promotion" (*.pdf), and co-authored for the Better World Campaign’s “Don’t Go It Alone” series – in a panel discussion at IRI. The discussion featured concrete recommendations for the next administration to rejuvenate U.S. democracy promotion efforts around the world. Ambassador Ronald Neumann, former Ambassador to Afghanistan, framed the discussion within diplomatic realities and practical cooperation among democracy NGOs.

Watch the panel discussion:

Wollack and Craner appeared on C-SPAN’s Washington Journal on Aug. 10 to discuss the paper, as well as events in the day’s headlines. Watch the program:

Pictured at top: Lorne Craner (left), Ken Wollack (center), and Ambassador Robert Neumann at the 'New Directions in Democracy Promotion' panel discussion.

Published September 4, 2008