Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor

Over the past quarter-century, a profound democratic revolution, grounded in the principles of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, has reshaped the world political order and helped secure global economic prosperity. Democracy, human rights, religious freedom, and worker rights rank high among the fundamental American values that have helped to create this freer, more stable, and prosperous global arena. But democracy and human rights are not just uniquely American concepts. They are truly universal values whose powerful message has transformed the planet. As we promote democracy and human rights, we build a stronger, more prosperous, and ultimately freer world. If we act wisely, future historians looking back at this millennium will identify the growth and consolidation of democracy and human rights as both our greatest achievement and our most important legacy.

The Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor is headed by Assistant Secretary  of State Lorne W. Craner.