In 2007, the United Nations declared September 15 International Day of Democracy, with the aim of promoting and protecting democratic principles. At IFES, we have supported these principles for three decades, working to ensure that every voice has a vote. As we celebrate International Day of Democracy, our regional directors provide an overview of the important democratic trends and challenges, as well as the opportunities, from their respective regions.
On September 7, IFES hosted a delegation of eight Egyptian college students to discuss projects in Egypt and the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Visiting the United States as part of the American Council of Young Political Leaders’ “Model American Congress” exchange program, the delegation took part in a question and answer session with President and CEO Bill Sweeney, MENA Regional Director Zeinab Abdelkarim, and IFES Egypt program staff.