WHAT IS THE INTERNATIONAL LEADERS FORUM?

The National Democratic Institute has organized an International Leaders Forum at every Democratic convention since 1984 as a way for international visitors to observe the convention proceedings and take part in a series of bipartisan panel discussions on the U.S. political process, foreign and domestic policy issues, and media coverage of the presidential race.  The visitors also have a rare opportunity to exchange ideas in­formally with their counterparts from around the world while getting a unique perspective on an American national political convention. This year, more than 500 international leaders from over 100 countries will be in Denver as part of ILF.

WHAT IS THE NATIONAL DEMOCRATIC INSTITUTE?

The National Democratic Institute (NDI) is a nonpartisan, nongovernmental organization that responds to the worldwide quest for popular civic participation, open and competitive political systems, and representative and accountable government. Since its founding in 1983, NDI and its local partners have worked to establish and strengthen democratic institutions and practices by building political and civic organizations, safeguarding elections and promoting citizen participation, openness and accountability in government. You can learn more about the Institute at our website: http://www.ndi.org/.

WHEN IS ILF?

The 2008 International Leaders Forum will be held Sunday, August 24, through Thursday, August 28, during the Democratic National Convention in Denver, Colorado.

WHO’S INVITED?

Invitees include current and former heads of state, speakers of parliament, legislators, leaders of political parties, government ministers, ambassadors and democratic activists.  Invitees represent ruling and opposition parties in both established and emerging democracies as well as representatives of reform movements in nations where democratic governance has not taken hold. In its nonpartisan programs to support democratic institutions and societies worldwide, NDI has worked with many of the ILF participants.

HOW IS ILF FUNDED?

ILF is paid for entirely with private donations.Participants pay their own airfare, lodging and other expenses.

WHAT IS NDI’S RELATION TO THE DEMOCRATIC PARTY?

The National Democratic Institute is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization with a loose affiliation with the Democratic Party.  We take no position on U.S. elections and receive no funding from the Party.