The FINANCIAL -- The United States Agency for International Development holds its third annual Democracy, Human Rights and Governance Forum in Washington, DC on June 21-22, convening this year at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace.

The two-day event will bring together government officials and international experts in the field of democracy, human rights and governance. The theme of the DRG Forum is Advancing the Dignity Agenda: New Approaches to Protecting Human Rights and Expanding Democratic Participation. According to USAID, it will focus on innovative approaches to promoting human dignity in the wake of the Arab Spring, such as expanding political participation of women and girls, making governments more transparent, and promoting civil society, among other issues.

“Inclusive governance, accountable institutions and the protection of human rights are vital for sustainable development and lasting peace,” said Nancy Lindborg, Assistant Administrator of USAID’s Bureau for Democracy, Conflict and Humanitarian Assistance. “That's why this year’s DRG forum is focused on dignity, and how to help people have hope and a voice in their future. We know these elements are key to strong democracies.”

Tawakkol Karman, recipient of the 2011 Nobel Peace Prize for her work in nonviolent struggle for the safety of women and for women’s rights to full participation in peace-building work in Yemen, will give the keynote address. USAID will also be joined by many leaders of innovative organizations involved in the promotion of democracy, human rights and good governance. 

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