The Foreign Service Journal, June 2004

for yet further progress. And where they can, they are building institutions inspired by their American experi- ences. Without exception, they believe that their North American exposure is a key factor in making them who they are today. One of them summed it up nicely: “A lot of the people in Ghana who are making a difference are people who’ve devel- oped a certain ‘Western edge’ to their skills, knowledge and values. Those who have lived and worked abroad, in responsible jobs where they had to be accountable, had to operate in a more democratic envi- ronment; they tend to bring some- thing extra. ... There are very few people in Ghana [otherwise] who are likely to approach their work in a like manner.” For us as Americans (and as for- eign policy professionals), an impor- tant lesson to be drawn from the transformation these Ghanaians experienced is that U.S. government exchange programs — and policies that make it possible for foreigners to come here through other means — are important tools in our foreign policy package. When foreigners come here, they do more than gain skills and learn what America is like. Living and working in the United States can help them become people whose values, attitudes, and aspira- tions for their own countries are in harmony with our country’s policies. By practicing democratic values and modeling participatory citizen- ship — in big ways and small, in their classrooms and offices, in their everyday lives and on the pub- lic stage — these pioneers are building an environment in which democracy as a political system will have a better chance of surviving. And this is all part of a process that can help build a world that is better, and perhaps ultimately safer, for all of us. Brooks Anne Robinson Senior Seminar National Foreign Affairs Training Center 64 F O R E I G N S E R V I C E J O U R N A L / J U N E 2 0 0 4 When foreigners come here, they do more than gain skills and learn what America is like. You know that intimate, boutique all-suite hotel that everyone wants to find? The one that has cutting-edge style and service, but is still reasonably priced? You just found it! • Located minutes from State Department Headquarters • Government per diem accepted all year • Newly Renovated suites with full kitchens • Visit our new restaurant “Dish” For more information please visit www.theriverinn.com or call (202) 337-7600. L OTS OF S TYLE , N OT A LOT OF P R I CE 9 2 4 2 5 T H S T R E E T , NW W A S H I N G T O N , DC 2 0 0 3 7