6.3: Interests and Values

Nurture common interests and values.

Other Information:

The Department and USAID will work to nurture common interests and values between Americans and people of different countries, cultures, and faiths across the world. America believes in the dignity and value of every human being in the world. We respect the historical and cultural roots that underlie other political and social systems, even as we uphold the inalienable and fundamental human rights of every person. Common interests and values are integral to U.S. Government communications. All outreach efforts and communications should be infused with our values. Department and USAID programs and messages should also build on areas in which our expertise corresponds to the interests and needs of our partners and counterparts. Creating indigenous capacity—whether it is in health, education, free press, workforce training, agriculture, law enforcement, or governance—is key to long-term progress, the stable development of civil society, and firm and friendly bilateral/multilateral relationships. We will pay particular attention and devote resources to health and education—two major areas that human beings across the world care about most. We will further commit America to working in partnership with other nations to eradicate preventable diseases. We will use exchanges and a broad range of information programs to share expertise and disseminate information. We will use conferences to focus attention on these areas, track progress, and publicize major initiatives. We will encourage greater collaboration between government agencies and foundations, NGOs, and health care organizations. American health programs that reinforce this goal include PEPFAR, efforts to reduce the impact of malaria, increased emphasis on maternal and infant mortality, and efforts to improve water supplies. In the field of education, efforts will be made to expand educational programs across the board, including the professional development of teachers, student and scholar exchanges, literacy training, and stimulation of critical thinking skills. We will foster mutual understanding through academic collaboration. Education also takes place outside of the classroom and other formal settings. We will offer after-school programs and summer camps and institutes, with a special focus on English language ability, to offer youth job-related skills and improve their economic prospects. These programs will also open windows on our shared values and the wider world of information. We will also expand horizons by sharing the best of American culture, mitigating negative images and misunderstanding.

Stakeholder(s):

• Broadcasting Board of Governors: BBG, consistent with its legislative charter and standards of professional journalism, disseminates information abroad on America and American policies.


• Department of Defense: Defense provides global support for public diplomacy and assistance activities and is a principal player in the interagency process.


• Department of Homeland Security: Homeland Security coordinates intelligence and law enforcement activities and programs that help protect the United States from terrorist and other threats, and leads on issues relating to visa policy and border control procedures.

Indicator(s):

Indicator:1

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