Fed Event: Wed. March 27th

Development Circle | THIS WEDNESDAY, March 27th | 12:15 - 1:20pm | 1203 VMH

"Entrenched Resistance to Rethinking Human Rights in the US Government’s Foreign Development Policy" with Dr. Chloe Schwenke, Vice President of Freedom House.

While human rights are by no means the only normative lens through which to frame U.S. foreign assistance, this approach has the most traction based on the strong existing architecture of international human rights laws, declarations, and treaties. That being said, for most in government, human rights are perceived only as prohibitions, rules, and political obligations – the stuff of diplomacy. This talk will explore a different side of human rights in the context of development – the U.S. Government’s appropriate role in fostering the sustainable expansion of human agency, freedoms, and opportunities, leading to a more universal realization of human well-being. Whether the U.S. Government is motivated or even competent to grasp this larger vision is very much in doubt.

Dr. Chloe Schwenke is a 2002 Ph.D. graduate of the School of Public Policy, and is currently vice president of global programs at Freedom House. In this role she oversees Freedom House’s emergency assistance funds, including the Lifeline Fund, which supports embattled civil society organizations, and Dignity for All, which supports to LGBTI advocates under threat. She will also oversee new global programs on freedom of expression, Internet freedom and religious freedom. Prior to this appointment, Chloe served as an Obama Administration appointee at the U.S. Agency for International Development both as the Senior Advisor for LGBT Policy globally, and as the Senior Advisor on Democracy, Human Rights, and Governance for sub-Saharan Africa. As USAID formulated their new strategy on Democracy, Human Rights, and Governance, Chloe provided leadership on embracing a development-focused vision of human rights that concentrates not only on protecting human rights, but also on expanding capabilities, opportunities, and freedoms. Chloe’s career as a development practitioner and academic extends over three decades of experience, including 15 years of work based in Africa and Asia. Her career is characterized by her innovative accomplishments in advancing international respect for the human rights of vulnerable and marginalized persons, advancing gender equality, and facilitating the emergence of ethical, democratic leaders throughout the developing world. She is also distinguished by her strong record in publications, public speaking, and advocacy.

Light refreshments will be served.