ADVANCE Democracy Act of 2005

The ADVANCE Democracy Act of 2005 (H.R. 1133) proposes a significant reorganization of the U.S. Department of State to prioritize the promotion of democracy and human rights as a core component of foreign policy. The bill would create several new high-level positions and offices, including an Under Secretary of State for Global Affairs and "Regional Democracy Hubs" worldwide, to monitor and support democratic transitions in nondemocratic countries. It also mandates specialized training and performance incentives for Foreign Service officers based on their effectiveness in promoting democratic values abroad.

For citizens, this legislation represents a shift in how U.S. tax dollars and diplomatic resources are used internationally, moving toward a more structured and interventionist approach to global governance. By establishing a public internet site for global democracy and requiring the collection of evidence regarding crimes against humanity, the bill aims to increase transparency and accountability for foreign leaders. Ultimately, the act seeks to align U.S. national security interests with the spread of democratic systems, potentially affecting international trade, global stability, and the United States' diplomatic standing with non-democratic allies.