Project on Middle East Democracy

Project on Middle East Democracy
The POMED Wire


Controversial Funds for Democracy Promotion in Iran

July 10th, 2008 by Adam

At the Public Record, Jason Leopold examines the State Department’s controversial “Democracy Program” to promote democracy, civil society, and human rights inside Iran. Leopold asserts that the money has been shrouded in secrecy with some of the money going to Iranian exile organizations in order to establish relationships with opposition groups. He also argues that the money is not having its desired effect as civil society and human rights organizations have rejected the funds as they believe it will taint their ability to bring change from within. Furthermore, such funds are described as having heightened Tehran’s insecurity and allowing them to justify crackdowns on opponents by citing foreign subversion.


Posted in Democracy Promotion, Foreign Aid, Iran, US foreign policy |

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One Response to “Controversial Funds for Democracy Promotion in Iran”

  1. Welcome | Project on Middle East Democracy Says:

    […] week, POMED posted a link to this article by Jason Leopold at the Public Record, criticizing programs funded by the […]

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