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The Democracy Reader cover

Democracy Reader, The discusses the elements of democracy, obstacles and strategies, and stories of success

 

Government

European Union
This is the gateway site for the EU, which describes itself as a family of democratic European countries, committed to working together for peace and prosperity. It is not a state intended to replace existing states, nor is it just an organization for international cooperation. The EU is, in fact, unique. Its member states have set up common institutions to which they delegate some of their sovereignty so that decisions on specific matters of joint interest can be made democratically at European level. The historical roots of the European Union lie in the Second World War; now the EU embraces 27 countries and 490 million people. Europe is a continent with many different traditions and languages, but also with shared values such as democracy, freedom and social justice. The EU defends these values. It fosters cooperation among the peoples of Europe, promoting unity while preserving diversity and ensuring that decisions are taken as close as possible to the citizens. The site includes extensive information on member countries and EU infrastructure, activities, and documents.
United Nations
The UN organization engages 191 member countries in achieving consensus on solving global problems. This site provides comprehensive information on the extensive UN structure, international news, conferences and events, member states, and global issues.
United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization
UNESCO is the United Nations’ specialized agency for education. Since its creation in 1945, the Organization has worked to improve education worldwide. The mission of the UNESCO Education Sector is: to provide international leadership for creating learning societies with educational opportunities for all populations and expertise, and to foster partnerships to strengthen national educational leadership and the capacity of countries to offer quality education for all. The site provides extensive information organized by the organization’s themes, geography, and infastructure.
U.S. Agency for International Development
USAID's history goes back to the Marshall Plan reconstruction of Europe after World War Two and the Truman Administration's Point Four Program. In 1961, the Foreign Assistance Act was signed into law and USAID was created by executive order. Since that time, USAID has been the principal U.S. agency to extend assistance to countries recovering from disaster, trying to escape poverty, and engaging in democratic reforms. USAID is an independent federal government agency that receives overall foreign policy guidance from the Secretary of State. Our Work supports long-term and equitable economic growth and advances U.S. foreign policy objectives by supporting: economic growth, agriculture and trade; global health; and democracy, conflict prevention and humanitarian assistance. The site is organized around the agency’s programs, locations, policy initiatives, public affairs, business opportunities, and careers.
U.S. Department of Education, International Affairs Office
IAO is located in the Office of the Secretary (OS) and is responsible for the overall coordination of the Department of Education's international presence. IAO works with Department program offices, support units, and senior leadership as well as with external partners including other federal agencies, state and local agencies, foreign governments, international organizations, and the private sector. International education is an important aspect of the Department's mission. The Secretary of Education has emphasized the significance of international education in preparing American students for citizenship and work in a global context. The Department administers over 40 international programs with annual budgets totaling over $120 million, and two-thirds of the Department's offices are involved in international initiatives as part of their work. The site provides information about IOA programs, publications, activities and events, international visitors, partners, and a variety of links.
U.S. Department of State
This site provides a comprehensive view of the government infrastructure and news regarding American international relations. The major sections include issues and papers, travel and business, countries, youth and education, and careers. All sections provide in-depth information on a large variety of topics.
 
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