Democratic Change: Worldwide Trends and US Policies

The war in Iraq has fueled longstanding controversy over U.S.-based efforts to promote democracy throughout the world. Kenneth Wollack is the president of the National Democratic Institute (NDI), one of the most prominent nongovernmental organizations in this field. NDI's mission is 'to provide practical assistance to civic and political leaders advancing democratic values, practices and institutions. NDI works in every region of the world to build political and civic organizations, safeguard elections, and to promote citizen participation, openness and accountability in government.'

Wollack will discuss the work of the NDI, how democracy is achieved and sustained, and what role can and should America and the rest of the world play in these efforts. After a brief presentation, Wollack will open the floor to questions and discussion about these critical and timely issues.