IFES paid tribute to two men who have dedicated themselves to promoting democracy and human rights with the 2007 Charles T. Manatt Democracy Award. The Honorable Lee H. Hamilton, president of the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars and a former U.S. representative, and His Excellency José Miguel Insulza, secretary general of the Organization of American States, accepted their awards at a ceremony in Washington October 2 that marked the 20th anniversary of IFES.

IFES President Jean-Pierre Kingsley said the careers of both honorees embodied the true nature of public service. “Both (men) have dedicated themselves to the advancement of human dignity and freedom in their home countries and abroad,” he said. Mr. Kingsley also paid tribute to the courage displayed by Buddhist monks in Myanmar who led pro-democracy protests last week in Yangon.

IFES Board Chairman William J. Hybl presented the award to Mr. Insulza, a native of Chile, recounting his role in helping Chile reestablish democracy after the rule of August Pinochet. Mr. Hybl said Mr. Insulza uses his position at the OAS to advocate on behalf of impoverished Latin Americans.

“While the world talks of Latin America moving left, albeit through democratic elections, Ambassador Insulza answers back with hope and vision, calling for more government transparency and more tolerance.”

In his remarks, Mr. Insulza pointed to the democratic transformation that Latin America experienced over the last two decades, with 15 presidential elections in the last two years alone. However, more work should be done to ensure good governance and tangible benefits for citizens.

“This important tribute from IFES… gives me strength to continue working with you for a better future in the Americas and for a world of peace, freedom and democracy.”

IFES President Jean-Pierre Kingsley and Argentine Ambassador to the U.S. José Octavio Bordón congratulates OAS Secretary General José Miguel Insulza (left) on his award. (Courtesy of RippleEffect Productions)

IFES Vice Chairman Peter Kelly introduced Mr. Hamilton calling him “one of the most respectable voices on matters of international relations and foreign affairs.” He pointed to Mr. Hamilton’s numerous leadership positions during his 34 years in Congress—such as chair of the Select Committee to Investigate Covert Arms Transactions with Iran—and afterward including serving as co-chairman of the Iraq Study Commission.

In his acceptance speech, Mr. Hamilton said democracy should always be a cornerstone of U.S. foreign policy, but that democracy promotion is a “difficult and delicate task” that requires time and sensitivity to the needs of the citizens it serves.

“We all know we have a lot more work to do to let freedom ring around the world,” he said, rallying the more than 250 democracy advocates, diplomats, election commissioners and other distinguished guests in attendance. “We are confident that we shall prevail.”

A third award was presented to Richard Soudriette, who served as IFES’ president for 19 of its 20 years. The IFES Democracy Award is named for Charles T. Manatt, a former U.S. ambassador to the Dominican Republic and a former IFES board chairman.