Freedom & Democracy

Spotlight: Dissidents

A New Initiative

In 2023, the Ronald Reagan Institute launched the newest initiative of its Center for Freedom & Democracy, called “Spotlight: Dissidents.” This project focuses and builds upon the previous work of the Center to bring attention to the plight of dissidents around the world. We aim to highlight their courageous efforts to promote freedom in their home countries.

With the number of democracies on the decline for over a decade, today’s authoritarians feel emboldened. At the same time, leaders here in the United States are increasingly reluctant to stand up for freedom fighters abroad. President Reagan’s example is needed now more than ever.