Democracy and Human Rights

A man puts his ballot into the ballot box

Ben Edwards/USAID

The Taita Taveta County Bunge Forum formed in October 2011. By registering with the Kenyan government as self-help groups, these bunges can open bank accounts, receive funding, and organize events like this forum.

Donatella Lorch, USAID

Democratic governance and human rights are critical components of sustainable development and lasting peace. Countries that have ineffective government institutions, rampant corruption and weak rule of law have a 30-to-45 percent higher risk of civil war and higher risk of extreme criminal violence than other developing countries. USAID is integrating democracy programming throughout our core development work, focusing on strengthening and promoting human rights, accountable and transparent governance, and an independent and politically active civil society.

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