The Carter Center announced today that Attahiru Muhammadu Jega, former chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission of Nigeria, will lead the Center’s international election observation mission in Zimbabwe. Learn more »
In the wake of the devastating earthquake that struck Syria and Turkey earlier this year, the U.S. government released General License 23 (GL 23), a humanitarian exception to sanctions on Syria, to allow for aid to reach those in need. This exception took effect Feb. 9, 2023, for a period of 180 days. Learn more »
The Carter Center is gravely concerned over the Israeli Knesset’s vote to enact legislation that strips the Israeli Supreme Court’s authority to override unreasonable government decisions. This legislation, known as the “reasonableness law,” is the first step of an extensive agenda designed to eliminate judicial responsibility to act on the Israeli government’s actions. Learn more »
My family and I are deeply saddened by the passing of Hugh “Sonny” Carter. He was not only close family, but he was crucial in my grandfather’s election as president by organizing the famous Peanut Brigade, and he skillfully implemented true zero-based budgeting within my grandfather’s White House. He was also widely known for his kindness and generosity. We will keep Glenna and his family in our hearts and prayers during this difficult time. Learn more »
The Carter Center is pleased to announce that Órla Ryan of The Journal, working with its investigative platform Noteworthy, and Shauna Bowers of The Irish Times have been selected as the inaugural winners of the Rosalynn Carter Fellowships for Mental Health Journalism in the Republic of Ireland. Learn more »
Following the conclusion of the tabulation process, the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL) released final results for parliamentary, mayoral, and local government elections in the first days of July showing unusual variances compared to the results of the presidential race released on June 27. This heightens doubts about the credibility of the tabulation process and the results from the June 24 election. Learn more »
Join The Center for Election Innovation and Research and The Carter Center on Thursday, July 20, at 1 p.m. ET for a discussion on the state of American democracy and concerns about the 2024 elections. Carter Center CEO Paige Alexander and CEIR Executive Director David Becker will speak. Learn more »
The Carter Center is pleased to announce nine U.S. recipients of the 2023-2024 Rosalynn Carter Fellowships for Mental Health Journalism. Learn more »
The adoption of several humanitarian carveouts under several Syria-related autonomous sanctions regimes – in response to February 2023’s devastating earthquake – has been strongly welcomed by the humanitarian community. The exceptions adopted by the United States (US), European Union (EU), United Kingdom (UK), and Switzerland are designed to facilitate transactions in relation to relief efforts and the purchase of oil and petroleum-related products in Syria, particularly by humanitarian actors. They differ in terms of scope of activities authorized, breadth of actors covered, and their duration. This article seeks to map the main characteristics of each exception and assesses them in terms of benefits, ongoing challenges, and areas for potential improvement to inform future sanctions policies. Learn more »
Jason Carter, chairman of The Carter Center Board of Trustees and the grandson of former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, participated in a discussion today in Lusaka about the Center’s work in the country. Learn more »
In a follow-up to the preliminary statement issued yesterday on the Sierra Leone elections, The Carter Center once again strongly urges the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL) to publish election results by polling station so that parties and observers can cross-verify data, in accordance with international best practice. Learn more »
In a preliminary statement released today, The Carter Center expresses concern about transparency and calls for calm as the tabulation of results is underway in Sierra Leone’s June 24 election. Learn more »
As the first day of tabulation draws to a close following the June 24 election in Sierra Leone, The Carter Center expresses concern about reports indicating a lack of transparency during parts of the tabulation process. Learn more »
The Carter Center announced today that former U.S. Ambassador Cameron Hume will lead the Center’s international election observation mission in Sierra Leone. Learn more »
An original painting by President Jimmy Carter, guitars autographed by Bonnie Raitt and Jeff Beck, and memorabilia commemorating Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and President Barack Obama are among more than 150 items to be auctioned on June 24 to benefit The Carter Center. Learn more »
The Carter Center offers its condolences to the family of Judge Thomas Buergenthal, a leading international human rights lawyer and the founder of the Center’s Human Rights Program. Learn more »
The Carter family is sharing that former First Lady Rosalynn Carter has dementia. She continues to live happily at home with her husband, enjoying spring in Plains and visits with loved ones. Learn more »
Mali has become the 17th country to receive the World Health Organization’s validation of the elimination of trachoma as a public health problem. The Carter Center, Helen Keller Intl, and Sightsavers are proud to have worked together in partnership to support the government of Mali in their fight against trachoma. This decade old partnership was made possible through the support of Conrad N. Hilton Foundation. Learn more »
The Carter Center will convene its 27th Rosalynn Carter Georgia Mental Health Forum on May 18, 2023. This free in-person and virtual event explores pressing mental health issues in Georgia and the rest of the country. Learn more »
The Carter Center joins those continuing to mourn the loss of Shireen Abu Akleh and again calls for a full and transparent investigation into her killing. Learn more »
The Carter Center has launched an international election observation mission to Sierra Leone in advance of the country’s national elections scheduled for June 24. The Center was invited to observe this year’s elections by the Election Commission of Sierra Leone (ECSL). Learn more »
The Carter Center is deeply concerned by the death of Khader Adnan, a Palestinian prisoner who died in solitary confinement in an Israeli prison this week after an 87-day-long hunger strike. Learn more »
Headline, a national media program focused on mental health in Ireland, has partnered with The Carter Center to offer the Rosalynn Carter Fellowship for Mental Health Journalism to Irish media. Learn more »
This spring marks the 25th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement, which ended decades of violence and established inclusive, democratic power-sharing institutions in Northern Ireland. On May 4, the Consulate General of Ireland in Atlanta and The Carter Center will co-host a commemorative event and reception with special guests representing diplomats, peacebuilders, and leaders from Northern Ireland and the United States. Learn more »
Former President Jimmy Carter’s legacy of promoting free and fair elections at home and abroad will be discussed at a May 1 event hosted by Rice University’s Baker Institute for Public Policy and The Carter Center. Learn more »
The Carter Center is heartbroken by the tragic humanitarian situation unfolding during the holy month of Ramadan in Sudan and calls on warring parties to immediately cease fighting and work to bring about lasting peace. Learn more »
The Carter Center mourns the passing of Kent C. “Oz” Nelson, who served as chairman of The Carter Center Board of Trustees from 2009 through 2015. He joined the board in 1994. Mr. Nelson, the former chairman and CEO of United Parcel Service, was board chair of United Way of America and United Way of Metropolitan Atlanta, as well as the Annie E. Casey Foundation. Learn more »
The Carter Center is alarmed by the Tunisian government’s arrests of several political actors in recent weeks as well as its denial of request for peaceful protests. These actions represent a direct and increasing threat to democratic institutions in Tunisia. Learn more »
The Carter Center, with the support of the Embassy of Ireland in Zambia, is releasing a new edition of the Election Obligations and Standards (EOS) manual, with a launch event that will be held in Lusaka, Zambia, on March 28. Learn more »
The Carter Center and the Embassy of Sweden in Zambia, with support from Irish and Finnish partners, are bringing together civil society actors, government officials, and other stakeholders in Lusaka on March 31 to discuss strategies to ensure equal participation and representation of women, youth, and persons with disabilities in politics in Zambia. “Securing a Seat at the Table: Women, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities as Influencers and Decision-Makers,” will take place just after the second global Summit for Democracy. Learn more »
The Carter family and The Carter Center are grateful to Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland for today’s decision to vacate the 2019 land swap agreement that put this ecologically rich area at risk and threatened to undermine ANILCA as a powerful piece of conservation law. Learn more »
ATLANTA (Feb. 18, 2023) — After a series of short hospital stays, former U.S. President Jimmy Carter today decided to spend his remaining time at home with his family and receive hospice care instead of additional medical intervention. He has the full support of his family and his medical team. The Carter family asks for privacy during this time and is grateful for the concern shown by his many admirers. Learn more »
The Carter Center applauds the release of 222 political prisoners by the government of Nicaragua and commends the U.S. government for providing humanitarian parole in the United States. We join the prisoners’ families in celebrating their release and note that restoring democracy in Nicaragua requires a halt to repression and a return to the political rights and guarantees expected in a democracy. Learn more »
The Carter Center is deeply saddened by the earthquakes that devastated Turkey and Syria, exacerbating an already dire humanitarian situation in Syria. As relief aid is being disbursed, it is crucial that it reach all affected communities immediately and without hindrance. Learn more »
Laura Turner Seydel, chair of the Captain Planet Foundation and director of the Turner Foundation, has been appointed chair of the Carter Center's Board of Councilors for 2023. Learn more »
The latest installment in the Finding Firmer Ground report series examines how technological advancements have increased distrust and uncertainty in U.S.-China relations. From big data to semiconductors, the multiauthor report looks into the geopolitical implications of technological development and what strategies, if any, policymakers in the United States and China can take to mitigate tensions. Learn more »
The Jan. 29 runoff election for Tunisia’s parliament again failed to motivate voters, underscoring the Tunisian people’s rejection of the political process initiated by the president on July 25, 2021. Learn more »
The Carter Center was pleased to hear Secretary of State Antony Blinken affirm the Biden administration’s goal of equal measures of freedom, security, opportunity, justice, and dignity for Palestinians and Israelis in his public remarks in Jerusalem this week. We support the administration’s sustained opposition to settlement construction, annexation of the West Bank, demolition of Palestinian houses, and displacement of Palestinians from their land. Learn more »
The Carter Center is pleased to announce that applications for journalists who are U.S. citizens and residents are now being accepted for the Rosalynn Carter Fellowships for Mental Health Journalism. Selected fellows will join a top-notch cohort of more than 250 fellows awarded over the past two decades. Learn more »
The Carter Center congratulated the Nigerian Federal Ministry of Health today for stopping river blindness transmission in four of the country’s 36 states, protecting 18.9 million people from the second-leading infectious cause of blindness. The public health triumph — the largest stop-treatment decision in the history of the global river blindness campaign — was announced today in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital, following World Neglected Tropical Diseases Day Jan. 30. Learn more »
The Carter Center condemns the recent violence linked to the campaign to stop the construction of a police training facility in South River Forest, located southeast of Atlanta. We support the right for individuals to protest peacefully and call for a transparent investigation into the death of the protester and the injury of the Georgia state trooper. Learn more »
Only 13 human cases of Guinea worm disease were reported worldwide in 2022, pushing the disease closer to eradication, The Carter Center announced Wednesday. The figure is the lowest annual case total ever reported, following the record of 15 cases set just the year before. When The Carter Center assumed leadership of the global Guinea Worm Eradication Program in 1986, about 3.5 million human cases occurred annually in 21 countries in Africa and Asia. Learn more »
The Carter Center is alarmed that the early actions of the new Israeli government violate human rights, contravene international law, and risk instigating identity-based violence in the occupied Palestinian territories and Israel. Learn more »
The Carter Center condemns today’s violent assault on the offices of Brazil’s three constitutional powers: the executive, legislative, and judicial branches, which provide the foundation of the country’s democracy. Learn more »
In a preliminary statement released today, The Carter Center called upon all Tunisian stakeholders to put aside their differences and engage in a truly inclusive and transparent national dialogue to reset the country’s stalled democratic transition. Learn more »
The Carter Center, which serves as the Independent Observer of the implementation of Mali’s 2015 peace agreement, released a new report today that focuses on the reconciliation, justice, and humanitarian issues laid out in Title V of the agreement. Learn more »
Georgia’s risk-limiting audit process examining the 2022 secretary of state race was transparent and well-conducted, with only minor problems that can be corrected through more standardization and training, The Carter Center said in a preliminary report issued today. Learn more »
The Carter Center is concerned by the decision of the Cochise County Board of Supervisors to delay certification of the county election results, which has the potential to disenfranchise the 47,284 county residents who voted in the 2022 midterm election. Learn more »
The Carter Center mourns the passing of Georgia House Speaker David Ralston, who set an example of working across party lines to bring positive change for the people of Georgia. His long record of public service included the championing of the state’s Mental Health Parity Act, a pioneering law passed with bipartisan support earlier this year. Rosalynn Carter is particularly grateful to Speaker Ralston for implementing insurance parity for mental health in Georgia, the realization of a dream for Mrs. Carter after five decades of mental health advocacy Learn more »
Following accreditation by the Georgia secretary of state’s office, The Carter Center will observe the risk-limiting audit of the results of Georgia’s Nov. 8 secretary of state race. Learn more »
The Carter Center today issued a statement on its assessment of training for Election Day poll workers in Arizona, drawing on limited in-person observation and a desk review of poll worker training materials. Learn more »
The Carter Center’s electoral expert mission has concluded its in-country assessment of Brazil’s presidential election. The mission focused on issues related to the function and transparency of the voting technology systems, disinformation about the use of those systems, and the legal framework governing the use of voting technology. Learn more »
The Carter Center and the University of La Sabana in Bogotá, Colombia, have named the two recipients of the 2022-2023 Rosalynn Carter Fellowship for Mental Health Journalism in Latin America. Learn more »
The Carter Center has launched a mission to observe the process surrounding the Dec. 17 parliamentary elections in Tunisia. Learn more »
The Carter Center today released a preliminary statement detailing its observation of the logic and accuracy testing of Arizona’s voting and counting equipment, which took place Oct. 5-11. Learn more »
Rosalynn and I are saddened by Charles Duncan’s passing. He was my friend for over 50 years, and in addition to his incredible success in business, served with distinction in two of the most critical positions in the federal government. As my Deputy Secretary of Defense, he championed the modernization of our services and the equality of women’s rights. As Secretary of Energy, his leadership resulted in a dramatic reduction in imported oil and stabilization of our domestic consumption. His intelligence and ability have provided a lasting example of a steady hand and encouraged cooperation. We will keep Anne and the Duncan family in our prayers during this difficult time. Learn more »
The Carter Center announced today that it will deploy nonpartisan election observers to Fulton County, Georgia, to observe the 2022 midterm election. Learn more »
The Carter Center and the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare in Liberia have announced a new initiative to train nine Liberian citizens from diverse backgrounds to serve two-year terms as “Liberia Mental Health Champions.” Learn more »
The Carter Center commends the Superior Electoral Court and Brazilian voters and electoral stakeholders for the successful general election held on Oct. 2. Learn more »
Governor Brian Kemp, Sen. Raphael Warnock, and gubernatorial candidates Stacey Abrams and Shane T. Hazel are the latest Georgia political candidates to sign on to the Candidate Principles for Trusted Elections. Learn more »
To mark President Jimmy Carter’s 98th birthday on October 1, The Carter Center is engaging the public in a weeklong, virtual celebration of a life dedicated to service and making the world a better place. Learn more »
The Carter Center expresses solidarity with the people of Iran who are calling for the end to severe restrictions on women in the wake of the death of Mahsa Amini, who was arrested for a slight violation of Iran’s strict dress code and died while in custody. Learn more »
Dr. Donald R. Hopkins, the Carter Center’s special advisor for Guinea worm eradication, received an honorary Doctor of Sciences degree Wednesday from the American Museum of Natural History’s Richard Gilder Graduate School. Learn more »
The Carter Center today officially launched the Candidate Principles for Trusted Elections initiative, a bipartisan effort to encourage candidates, political parties, and voters to uphold five core doctrines of democratic elections: integrity, nonviolence, security, oversight, and the peaceful transfer of power. Learn more »
The Carter Center, a not-for-profit organization advancing peace and health worldwide, has appointed 21 new members to its Board of Councilors, bringing total membership to 231. Learn more »
As part of a partnership with The National media outlet in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), The Carter Center announces two new fellows for the Rosalynn Carter Fellowships for Mental Health Journalism Program. Learn more »
The Carter Center today released the preliminary report from its expert mission to Kenya’s Aug. 9 presidential election, which focuses on the use of election technology and finds that significant progress was made in using technology to enhance the transparency and verifiability of the election process. Learn more »
Rosalynn and I extend our condolences to the family of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and the citizens of the United Kingdom. Her dignity, graciousness, and sense of duty have been an inspiration, and we join the millions around the world in mourning a remarkable leader. Learn more »
Moon was admired throughout our great nation as a national leader in urban policy and a tough-minded and historically significant mayor. He effectively demonstrated that the new South would only thrive through racial coalition rather than the historical pattern of division. He was a superb secretary of housing and urban development, and I have been proud to have him in my Cabinet and as my friend. Learn more »
The Carter Center announced today that it will deploy an international electoral expert mission team for the 2022 presidential election in Brazil. As part of this effort, the Center will send a small team to the election systems sealing ceremony in Brasilia on Friday. Learn more »
The Carter Center mourns the death of former Soviet President Mikhail Gorbachev, a significant driver of change in the 20th century. Gorbachev and former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, both of whom would go on to win the Nobel Peace Prize, first met in 1987 in Moscow to discuss peace in the Middle East. President Carter noted after that meeting that they both grew up in rural areas and said: "Two farmers can’t be antagonistic toward each other." Learn more »
In the midst of a hyper-partisan political environment, Republicans, Democrats, and Independents in Georgia have found something to work on together: democracy. Learn more »
The Carter Center condemns Israel’s decision today to raid and close the offices of six prominent Palestinian human rights organizations based in Ramallah. Learn more »
As part of a celebration of former U.S. First Lady Rosalynn Carter’s 95th birthday on August 18, The Carter Center and the Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregivers call attention to Mrs. Carter’s accomplishments and ongoing championing of causes that are increasingly relevant in today’s world. Learn more »
The Carter Center is alarmed by recent developments in and around Gaza that resulted in the death of some 46 Palestinians, including at least 16 children, in the latest escalation of violence over the past weekend. Learn more »
The Guinea Worm Eradication Program, led by The Carter Center, has been chosen to receive the Fourth Hideyo Noguchi Africa Prize in the medical services category, the government of Japan announced Wednesday in Tokyo. The prize recognizes the program’s efforts to make Guinea worm disease the first human disease to be eradicated since smallpox in 1980. Learn more »
The Carter Center today deployed a four-person election expert mission to Nairobi to assess key issues regarding the use and perception of election technology in Kenya’s 2022 presidential election. Learn more »
The Carter Center condemns the executions carried out today by the State Administration Council in Myanmar. The resumption of the death penalty in Myanmar after a moratorium of decades is a sad and unnecessary step back. The Carter Center expresses its condolences to the families of the four men who were executed and compassion for all those suffering as the result of the military coup d’état. Learn more »
The Carter Center today released a report from its electoral expert mission to Colombia’s 2022 presidential election. It includes recommendations for improving future electoral processes, with a particular emphasis on reforming electoral administration and campaign financing. Learn more »
The Carter Center is establishing I-Policy, an initiative to educate U.S. policymakers on issues related to democracy and human rights in India. Learn more »
The Carter Center is pleased to announce nine U.S. recipients of the 2022-2023 Rosalynn Carter Fellowships for Mental Health Journalism. The group includes freelancers, staff reporters, a Georgia journalist, and the third annual awardee of the Benjamin von Sternenfels Rosenthal Grant for Mental Health Investigative Journalism, in partnership with Reveal from the Center for Investigative Reporting. Learn more »
As President Biden prepares for his visit to Israel and the Palestinian territories later this week, The Carter Center calls on him to make human rights a central theme of his meetings with Israeli and Palestinian leaders. Learn more »
The Carter Center condemns the assassination of former Prime Minister of Japan Shinzo Abe. Political violence is never acceptable, and it is especially shocking in a country as peaceful and free of gun violence as Japan. Learn more »
On June 30 at approximately 7:45 a.m., access to internet and mobile communications was cut in Sudan. This communications blackout comes as Sudanese citizens engage in demonstrations in support of democracy. Learn more »
The Carter Center, which serves as the Independent Observer of Mali’s 2015 peace agreement, today released a report describing the current, unprecedented impasse in the implementation process. Learn more »
The Carter Center is deeply disappointed with today’s Supreme Court ruling overturning Roe vs. Wade, which puts women’s health at risk by denying them the right to make their own health-care decisions. Learn more »
Colombia’s recent presidential elections (first round on May 29 and runoff on June 19) were conducted in an orderly fashion, and the results of the final round were accepted quickly by both candidates, a Carter Center election expert mission concluded. Nevertheless, the Center has several preliminary recommendations to improve Colombia’s electoral system. Learn more »
ICTI Blog Co-authored by Center Staffers Highlights Efforts in Sudan to Deliver Trachoma Interventions to Refugees Learn more »
The 2022 Carter Center Weekend raised $4,418,851 in donations and auction sales to support the Center’s work to wage peace, fight disease, and build hope worldwide. Events for the annual fundraiser, held June 15-19 in Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia, included live, silent, and online auctions, as well as a town hall with Carter Center senior leadership, presentations by Center staff, and a variety of social events. Learn more »
After two years as a virtual event, the Carter Center Weekend retreat for major supporters will be live and in person this week. The event is being held Wednesday-Sunday, June 15-19, in historic Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia. Learn more »
Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 has had obvious effects on Ukraine and Eastern Europe, but its current and potential destabilizing effects in Syria are not receiving the attention they desperately need. Learn more »
Join us and Every Woman Treaty on Thursday, June 2, at 10 a.m. ET US (UTC -4) for a live discussion about environmental disaster and its catastrophic consequences for women and girls. Learn more »
The Carter Center is deploying an international electoral expert mission to Bogota today to assess important aspects of the presidential election in Colombia. Learn more »
In the past 200 years, humankind has made incredible progress against many threats to health: vaccines, medicines and other innovations have saved millions of lives from feared killers, from malaria to cancer. But only one human disease – smallpox – has ever been eradicated. Less noticed by the rest of the world, we stand on the threshold of consigning another disease to the history books: Guinea worm. Learn more »
The Carter Center will convene its 26th Rosalynn Carter Georgia Mental Health Forum on May 18-19, 2022. This free virtual event explores pressing mental health issues in Georgia and the country. (See below for agenda and viewing information.) Learn more »
Rosalynn and I are saddened to learn of the death of our friend Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Learn more »
The Carter Center condemns the killing of Al Jazeera news correspondent Shireen Abu Akleh, a Palestinian American, and calls for an independent investigation into the incident. The perpetrators must be brought to justice. Learn more »
The Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act of 1980 (ANILCA) established more National Parks, National Wildlife Refuges, and Wilderness Areas than any in history and has been called our country’s most significant conservation law. It was my honor to work with Congress and citizens throughout our great nation on the passage of ANILCA. Learn more »
Jason Carter, chairman of The Carter Center Board of Trustees, and C.D. Glin, Global Head of Philanthropy for PepsiCo and a Carter Center board member, led a delegation this week to Bamako, where they met with leaders tasked with implementing Mali’s 2015 peace agreement. Learn more »
The Carter Center is deploying an international electoral expert mission to Manila to assess important aspects of the May 9 general elections in the Philippines. Learn more »
The Carter Center today released the final report from its international election expert mission to Palestine’s 2022 local council elections. The Center’s election expert mission was limited in size and scope, focusing its assessment on three sets of issues: the legal and administrative framework for the elections; the degree of political engagement, competition, and respect for participatory rights; and the implications of the municipal elections for future elections in Palestine. The team did not conduct a thorough assessment of election-day voting and counting processes, nor of the electoral process as a whole. Learn more »
By Eve H. Byrd, Director, Carter Center Mental Health Program
During the 2022 state legislative session, the Georgia General Assembly voted unanimously to pass the Mental Health Parity Act, ensuring that the state will enforce parity in insurance coverage for behavioral health care for the first time. Learn more »
Palestinians living in large cities in the West Bank went to the polls on March 26 in a peaceful and well-administered exercise to elect municipal councils. A Carter Center election expert mission found that virtually all the major cities in the West Bank experienced competitive electoral contests, notwithstanding a formal boycott by Hamas and a highly challenging political and electoral environment, marked by frequent human rights violations, including intimidation and harassment of political actors. Learn more »
By Hampton Stall, Senior Program Associate, The Carter Center
After the Mozambique civil war ended in 1992, demining experts needed 23 years to clear the 86,000 unexploded weapons left behind. A just-released Carter Center report suggests that there could be more than three times that amount of unexploded ordnance in Syria, where demining efforts have yet to begin. Learn more »
Mary S. Moore, SVP operations & omnichannel buyer engagement, Juniper by IMC, and founder and owner of The Cook's Warehouse, has been appointed chair of the Carter Center's Board of Councilors for 2022. The board comprises 215 members, who serve as a leadership advisory group that promotes understanding among opinion leaders and the broader community of The Carter Center and its activities. Learn more »
Rosalynn and I applaud President Biden’s decision to welcome up to 100,000 Ukrainians to the United States. Learn more »
Rosalynn and I are saddened by the passing of our friend Secretary Madeleine Albright. Learn more »
High-ranking representatives of several countries pledged this week to devote all resources needed to interrupt transmission of Guinea worm disease and certify its eradication by 2030. Learn more »
Rosalynn and I are saddened by the passing of former President of Zambia Rupiah Banda. Learn more »
The Carter Center is establishing I-Policy (India Policy), an initiative to educate U.S. policymakers on issues related to democracy and human rights in India. Learn more »
“Rosalynn and I are saddened by the passing of our dear friend Dick Blum. Dick dedicated much of his life and personal resources to improving the lives of the less fortunate around the world. The Carter Center has been blessed to be one of the recipients of his goodwill and generosity. We send our love to Dianne and their family, and we will keep them in our prayers during this difficult time.” Learn more »
Russia’s unprovoked attack on Ukraine using military and cyber weapons violates international law and the fundamental human rights of the Ukrainian people. I condemn this unjust assault on the sovereignty of Ukraine that threatens security in Europe and the entire world, and I call on President Putin to halt all military action and restore peace. The United States and its allies must stand with the people of Ukraine in support of their right to peace, security, and self-determination. Learn more »
The Carter Center condemns Russian President Vladimir Putin’s decision to send troops into the sovereign nation of Ukraine, a clear violation of international law and the human rights of the Ukrainian people. We call on Russia to immediately withdraw its forces and engage with Ukraine’s leaders and the international community to find a diplomatic solution to the crisis. Learn more »
The Carter Center and The Elders invite you to join a live conversation focusing international attention on the continued impact of Israel’s terrorist designation of six Palestinian civil society organizations and the need for this decision to be reversed. Learn more »
In the face of the growing national mental health crisis, The Carter Center announces the launch of the Mental Health Parity Collaborative, a new multistate newsroom partnership focused on exploring access to and inequities in mental health care in the U.S. Learn more »
The Carter Center is pleased to announce that applications for journalists who are U.S. citizens and residents are now being accepted for the Rosalynn Carter Fellowships for Mental Health Journalism. Selected fellows will join a top-notch cohort of more than 225 fellows awarded over the past two decades. Learn more »
The third annual World NTD Day is Jan. 30, 2022, highlighting the global commitment to ending neglected tropical diseases (NTDs), which cause immeasurable suffering among the world’s most marginalized communities. On Sunday, more than 100 landmarks in over 30 nations will light up to celebrate progress and ensure NTDs remain a global priority. Learn more »
The Carter Center announced Wednesday the lowest annual case total ever recorded, and the cases occurred in just four countries. When The Carter Center assumed leadership of the global Guinea Worm Eradication Program in 1986, about 3.5 million human cases occurred annually in 21 countries in Africa and Asia. Learn more »
The Carter Center has selected 12 cities around the world to participate in the second year of its Inform Women, Transform Lives campaign, a global effort to ensure that women can seek and receive beneficial information from their local governments and thrive in their communities. Learn more »
Matthew De Galan, whose global communications background spans leadership positions at CARE, Mercy Corps, the Nike Foundation, and the U.N. Global Partnership to End Violence Against Children, has been named vice president of communications at The Carter Center. Learn more »
One year ago, a violent mob, guided by unscrupulous politicians, stormed the Capitol and almost succeeded in preventing the democratic transfer of power. All four of us former presidents condemned their actions and affirmed the legitimacy of the 2020 election. There followed a brief hope that the insurrection would shock the nation into addressing the toxic polarization that threatens our democracy. Learn more »
Sarah was a warrior in the continuing struggle for equal rights for women. She dedicated her life to that mission and was a leading force for these rights in my administration. Rosalynn and I add our voices to those who mourn her passing. Learn more »
Rosalynn and I join the world in mourning the loss of our friend Archbishop Desmond Tutu. No words better exemplify his ministry than the three he contributed to a work of art at The Carter Center: love, freedom, and compassion. He lived his values in the long struggle to end apartheid in South Africa, in his leadership of the national campaign for truth and reconciliation, and in his role as a global citizen. Learn more »
The Carter Center, together with the Ethiopia Onchocerciasis Elimination Expert Advisory Committee (EOEEAC), is pleased to further amplify Ethiopia’s Ministry of Health press release, which went out earlier this week. For two decades, Ethiopia has been a leader in river blindness elimination and we congratulate them on interrupting transmission of river blindness in three districts in the Oromia region, the country’s most recent stop treatment decision. Learn more »
The Carter Center calls on participants in the Summit for Democracy to prioritize the protection of human rights defenders and voices of dissent as they face increased attacks throughout the world. Learn more »
Rosalynn and I are deeply saddened to learn of the death of former Sen. Robert Dole. A true leader, Bob was willing to work across political parties to make progress on important issues. He showed that our differences need not divide us, but can foster effective answers to our nation’s most difficult problems. Learn more »
The Carter Center today released the preliminary report from its international electoral expert mission on Venezuela’s regional and municipal elections. Learn more »
A group of pro-democracy institutions and organizations working globally to support human rights defenders, independent media, civil society, elections, and democratic transformations agreed to address these Five Messages to leading democracies on the occasion of the Summit for Democracy. We believe these issues are of key importance for advancing democracy worldwide. Learn more »
New data indicate that mass treatment with ivermectin—a drug that was a workhorse of tropical medicine long before it emerged as a controversial COVID-19 treatment—has eliminated river blindness transmission in two states in Nigeria, the first Nigerian states to achieve this distinction in a country that has the world’s highest burden of the disease. Learn more »
Rosalynn and I join thousands of Americans in mourning the loss of our dear friend Max Cleland. A true American hero who was no stranger to sacrifice, Max gave of his talents in service as a Georgia state senator, secretary of state, head of the VA, and U.S. senator. We are grateful for his commitment to the citizens of the United States, but also for the personal role he played in our lives. We know his legacy of courage and dedication will serve as inspiration for generations to come. Learn more »
The Carter Center will deploy a limited international electoral expert mission to Caracas to assess key aspects of the electoral process surrounding Venezuela’ s Nov. 21 regional and municipal elections. Learn more »
The Carter Center condemns today’s coup d’etat in Sudan and calls upon Sudan’s military actors to immediately release detainees, allow peaceful demonstrations, and move swiftly to transfer leadership of the government to civilian control, maintaining the agreed-upon transitional schedule. Learn more »
The Carter Center is alarmed by the Israeli Defense Ministry’s designation of leading Palestinian human rights organizations as terrorist organizations. Learn more »
On World Sight Day, Carter Center Trachoma Control Program Director Kelly Callahan joins Pfizer and the International Trachoma Initiative for a live discussion on our longstanding partnership to help eliminate blinding trachoma around the world. Learn more »
The Carter Center today published “The Big Lie and Big Tech,” a new report that details the role played by “repeat offenders”—media known to repeatedly publish false and misleading information—in spreading election fraud narratives in online echo chambers during the 2020 election. Learn more »
When President Kaïs Saïed invoked Article 80 of the constitution on July 25 and then issued Decree 117 on Sept. 22, he effectively undid the constitutional order set out in the 2014 Constitution and gave himself unchecked control over all levers of governmental authority. His unilateral decisions undermine fundamental democratic principles in general and those set out in the 2014 Constitution in particular and threaten the democratic aspirations of the Tunisian people. Learn more »
The Carter Center, a not-for-profit organization advancing peace and health worldwide, has appointed 26 new members to its Board of Councilors, bringing total membership to 232. Learn more »
Journalists Flavia Fontes Mantovani, of Folha de São Paulo daily newspaper in Brazil, and Katherine Stanley Obando, from solutions journalism outlet El Colectivo 506 in Costa Rica, will receive USD$5,000 to investigate mental health in their regions. Learn more »
The Carter Center is partnering with the Liberia Election Observation Network (LEON) on a new, three-year project to advance democratic governance in Liberia. Learn more »
As part of a partnership with The National media outlet in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), The Carter Center announces two new fellows for the Rosalynn Carter Fellowships for Mental Health Journalism Program in the UAE. Learn more »
The Carter Center calls on the Palestinian Authority to halt its crackdown on fundamental freedoms and engage in meaningful dialogue with political and civil society leaders to reschedule genuine and inclusive elections in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, and the Gaza Strip. Learn more »
The Carter Center, which serves as the Independent Observer of Mali’s 2015 peace agreement, today released a new report that notes improved dialogue between the agreement’s signatories in recent months, while also highlighting the lack of progress on the most important issues and suggesting ways to make headway on implementing the agreement. Learn more »
The Carter Center today released its preliminary report on Zambia’s Aug. 12 general elections, which were successful despite the unlevel playing field and the COVID-19 pandemic. Learn more »
On Aug. 12 at approximately 1:55 p.m., Internet users in Zambia lost access to WhatsApp. Shortly after, they became unable to access Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Messenger as well. All these services remain unavailable without use of a virtual private network. Learn more »
The Carter Center today released “Sudan’s Youth and the Transition: Priorities, Perception, and Attitudes,” a report that presents the experiences, expectations, and hopes of Sudanese youth regarding the country’s transition from Omar al-Bashir’s regime to democracy. Learn more »
The Carter Center has deployed the first two members of its international electoral expert mission to Lusaka to assess the process surrounding Zambia’s Aug. 12 general elections. Learn more »
The Carter Center calls on the Palestinian Authority leadership to reschedule Palestinian presidential, legislative, and municipal elections—ideally within the next six months—and to engage with political leaders to create an environment conducive to peaceful and genuine elections. Learn more »
The Carter Center is pleased to announce nine U.S. recipients of the 2021-2022 Rosalynn Carter Fellowships for Mental Health Journalism. The Center is awarding one more fellowship than in previous years due to the heightened need for solid mental health reporting during the Covid-19 pandemic and beyond. Learn more »
The 2021 Carter Center Weekend raised $1,939,828 in donations and auction sales June 21-26 to support work to wage peace, fight disease, and build hope worldwide. Events included an online auction and Saturday broadcast featuring conversations with former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright, celebrity messages, updates from staff in Africa and Latin America, and a live auction of select items. Learn more »
On June 24, Palestinian political activist Nizar Banat died when Palestinian Authority (PA) security forces raided his home in Hebron in the southern West Bank. According to his family, PA security officers used explosives to blow open the door of Banat’s residence, pepper-sprayed him, and violently beat him. Learn more »
The Carter Center’s marquee annual fundraiser will again be virtual—giving everyone the opportunity to tune in to cartercenter.org at 8 p.m. June 26 to help celebrate the legacy of President and Mrs. Carter. Learn more »
The Carter Center is deeply saddened to confirm that John Marsh, a contractor responsible for managing the Center’s social media monitoring project in Ethiopia, died unexpectedly Monday, June 21, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Learn more »
The Carter Center’s Rosalynn Carter Fellowships for Mental Health Journalism (RCJF) is pleased to announce the appointment of four new U.S. Advisory Board members. They bring a wealth of experience and expertise from various mediums, academia and the international journalism arena. Learn more »
As part of its continued focus on the global fight against neglected tropical diseases (NTDs), the Noor Dubai Foundation renews its partnership with The Carter Center to wipe out trachoma, the leading infectious cause of blindness. Since 2013, the two organizations have assisted Ethiopia in the elimination of trachoma as a public health problem in 29% of the Amhara region, known to be the most trachoma-endemic location in the world. Learn more »
The Carter Center today released the final report from its electoral expert team on Bolivia’s Oct. 18, 2020, general elections. The report commends the work of the Supreme Electoral Tribunal, known by its Spanish acronym, TSE, for conducting a complex election process with independence, impartiality, and transparency, paving the way to return to the constitutional framework. The report also highlights the record participation and intense competition, which happened despite the political tensions and the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Learn more »
The Carter Center condemns the government of Nicaragua’s actions against opposition presidential contender Cristiana Chamorro, who has been denied due process of law for unsubstantiated charges, stripped of her right to compete for public office, and detained incommunicado under house arrest. Learn more »
The Carter Center’s Dr. Donald R. Hopkins received an honorary Doctor of Medical Sciences degree Monday from Yale University for his work toward the eradication of smallpox and Guinea worm disease. Learn more »
Former U.S. First Lady Rosalynn Carter was recognized today by the World Health Organization (WHO) for 50 years of leadership to help improve access to health care for all people with mental health and substance use issues. Learn more »
The Carter Center is convening its 25th Rosalynn Carter Georgia Mental Health Forum on May 20-21. This free virtual event explores pressing mental health issues relevant to Georgia and the country. Learn more »
The Carter Center calls on Israel to halt the bombardment of Gaza, a densely populated area. Residents there have no access to bomb shelters and have no way to escape the indiscriminate shelling. Learn more »
While the 2019 elections were successful in ensuring a peaceful transfer of power, the country’s newly elected officials have failed to address the country’s significant political, economic, and social challenges. Learn more »
As part of a partnership with The National media outlet in the United Arab Emirates, The Carter Center announced Thursday that applications are open for the Rosalynn Carter Fellowships for Mental Health Journalism. Learn more »
The Carter Center welcomes the just conviction of the police officer responsible for the murder of George Floyd. Our thoughts are with Floyd’s family members who have endured unimaginable pain as the trial exposed the horrific details of the killing of their loved one. Learn more »
Today I mourn the passing of my dear friend Walter Mondale, who I consider the best vice president in our country’s history. During our administration, Fritz used his political skill and personal integrity to transform the vice presidency into a dynamic, policy-driving force that had never been seen before and still exists today. Learn more »
Rosalynn and I are saddened by the passing of Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh. We have fond memories of meeting the prince and Queen Elizabeth II early in my presidency. He was gracious, kind, and served Great Britain with honor. We send our condolences to Her Majesty the Queen, the royal family, and citizens of the United Kingdom. Learn more »
On April 6, the Israeli police prevented an electoral event planned by Palestinian civil society organizations at the Ambassador Hotel in occupied East Jerusalem. Police placed barriers around the vicinity of the hotel to block participants from reaching it. Israeli security officials detained activists, including a Fatah candidate for the Palestinian Legislative Council, Ghada Abu Rabee. The manager of the Ambassador Hotel, Sami Abu Dayya, was reportedly placed in custody. Learn more »
The Carter Center today issued its final report on Georgia’s risk-limiting audit of the November 2020 presidential race, commending the process and saying that it should serve as the basis for increased confidence in the state’s electoral system. Learn more »
Next week, The Carter Center and Rice University’s Baker Institute for Public Policy are launching “The Carter-Baker Commission: 16 Years Later,” a series of five virtual events focused on key issues affecting U.S. elections and potential reforms. Learn more »
At a virtual town hall held on March 23, a bipartisan group of Georgia lawmakers and mental health advocates called for immediate action to make behavioral health services more available throughout the state. Learn more »
The founders, leadership, and staff of The Carter Center extend their heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of the victims of this week’s mass shooting in the Atlanta area. Learn more »
Americans know the heart of the stranger. The colonies that became the United States were founded by refugees from religious persecution, and our religious traditions call on us to welcome the stranger. Learn more »
The Ad Council and COVID Collaborative today announced new PSAs as part of their COVID-19 Vaccine Education Initiative’s “It’s Up To You” campaign featuring former Presidents Barack Obama, George W. Bush, Bill Clinton, Jimmy Carter, and former First Ladies Michelle Obama, Laura Bush, Hillary Clinton, and Rosalynn Carter. The videos are designed to encourage all Americans to get answers to the top questions about the COVID-19 vaccines at GetVaccineAnswers.org and to get a vaccination when it’s available to them. Learn more »
— In 1962, I ran to represent the 14th Senate District in the Georgia legislature. I won my Senate seat, but only after the courts ruled that a ballot box had been illegally “stuffed” with votes for my opponent. My experience with our election system was one of the reasons Rosalynn and I created The Carter Center. Since 1989, we have observed 113 elections in 39 countries and helped build consensus on standards for democratic elections, perhaps the most fundamental of which are the rights to vote and be elected. Learn more »
The Carter Center today launched the Inform Women, Transform Lives campaign, a groundbreaking global effort to help ensure that women can seek and receive information from their governments. Learn more »
In a preliminary statement released today, the Electoral Institute for Sustainable Democracy in Africa (EISA) and The Carter Center presented their initial findings following the observation of the election of members of the National Assembly which took place on March 6, 2021. Learn more »
The Carter Center and The Global Institute for Disease Elimination (GLIDE) announced an exciting new partnership to support the Carter Center’s innovative disease elimination efforts in the Americas. Learn more »
The Electoral Institute for Sustainable Democracy in Africa (EISA) and The Carter Center announced today in a press briefing the continuation of their International Election Observation Mission (IEOM) in Côte d'Ivoire and the deployment of 24 short-term international electoral observers to observe the conduct of the March 6, 2021, legislative elections. Learn more »
Rosalynn and I are saddened by the passing of our friend Vernon Jordan. In the courtroom alongside Donald Lee Hollowell, Vernon helped push our home state into the modern era by forcing the University of Georgia to integrate, and that was just the beginning of his legacy of contributions to American social progress. We offer our condolences to his wife, daughter, and his many admirers. Learn more »
The Carter family is saddened to learn of the passing of our friend and fellow Lion Dr. Tebebe Berhan. Dr. Berhan’s passion and dedication to the fight against Neglected Tropical Diseases impacted millions of lives in Ethiopia and worldwide through the Lions-Carter Center SightFirst partnership. Learn more »
The Carter Center today released “Finding Firmer Ground: The Role of Civil Society and NGOs in U.S.-China Relations,” a report that addresses how expanded civil society engagement between the U.S. and China can help stabilize the bilateral relationship. Learn more »
The Carter Center, a global leader in mental health, is pleased to announce that applications for journalists who are U.S. citizens and residents are now being accepted for the Rosalynn Carter Fellowships for Mental Health Journalism. Selected fellows will join a top-notch cohort of more than 225 fellows awarded over the past two decades. Learn more »
Jan. 30, 2021, will mark the second annual World NTD Day, highlighting the global community’s commitment to ending neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) that cause immeasurable suffering among the world’s most marginalized communities. Learn more »
His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, has announced renewed financial support of $10M to the Carter Center, following the 30th anniversary of the organization’s partnership with the UAE. Learn more »
Despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of human Guinea worm cases was cut in half to just 27* in 2020, The Carter Center announced Tuesday. Learn more »
Rosalynn and I are saddened by the passing of our dear friend Henry Aaron. One of the greatest baseball players of all time, he has been a personal hero to us. A breaker of records and racial barriers, his remarkable legacy will continue to inspire countless athletes and admirers for generations to come. We send our love to Billye and their family and to Hank’s many fans throughout the world. Learn more »
While many rich nations, including the United States, have begun to vaccinate populations against COVID-19, even frontline workers in Africa must wait until April. This is a moral challenge for the U.S., which has obligations under the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, created after the global pain of World War II to enable all nations to prosper by guaranteeing basic human rights, including access to health care. Learn more »
Our country’s long and proud history of peaceful and democratic transitions is being tested by the events unfolding inside the U.S. Capitol, which was put on lockdown after protestors stormed the building. Learn more »
Rosalynn and I are troubled by the violence at the U.S. Capitol today. This is a national tragedy and is not who we are as a nation. Having observed elections in troubled democracies worldwide, I know that we the people can unite to walk back from this precipice to peacefully uphold the laws of our nation, and we must. We join our fellow citizens in praying for a peaceful resolution so our nation can heal and complete the transfer of power as we have for more than two centuries. Learn more »
The Carter Center, which serves as the Independent Observer of Mali’s 2015 peace agreement, today released its year-end report, which finds that the lack of commitment by the parties – combined with the sociopolitical crisis, the coup d'état, the establishment of the Transition, and the COVID-19 pandemic – greatly limited the progress of implementation in 2020. Learn more »
The Carter Center welcomes the passage of a bipartisan resolution of the U.S. House of Representatives last Friday honoring former First Lady Rosalynn Carter’s decades of work to improve mental health care and diminish the stigma against mental illnesses. Learn more »
The Carter Center has selected 13 cities around the world to participate in its first Inform Women, Transform Lives campaign, a groundbreaking effort that aims to ensure that women can seek and receive impactful information from their governments and thrive in their communities. Learn more »
The Carter Center congratulates Georgia’s 159 counties and office of the secretary of state on their successful completion of the audit of the Nov. 3 presidential election. The conduct of the audit, which constituted the largest hand tally of an election race in U.S. history, was particularly impressive given that counties had less than 48 hours to prepare for the process, which was carried out in a highly politicized environment and in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. Learn more »
Following accreditation by the Georgia secretary of state’s office, The Carter Center will monitor the risk-limiting audit taking place in the state of Georgia. Learn more »
In a preliminary statement released today, The Carter Center commended the efforts of the election administration, election contestants, citizen observers, media, and voters to overcome the challenges that COVID-19 presented to the conduct of Myanmar’s general elections. Learn more »
Rosalynn joins me in congratulating our friends President-elect Joe Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris. We are proud of their well-run campaign and look forward to seeing the positive change they bring to our nation. Learn more »
The Carter Center urges both presidential candidates and Democrat and Republican party leaders to call for calm and patience while we wait for final vote tallies and the resolution of any ensuing recounts or lawsuits. Learn more »
U.S. citizens should be proud of the monumental efforts that have been made to prepare for the 2020 election, even in the face of a global pandemic and threats from malign actors, including foreign adversaries. Learn more »
In a statement released today, the Electoral Institute for Sustainable Democracy in Africa (EISA) and The Carter Center reported their preliminary findings following their observation of the Oct. 31, 2020, presidential election in Côte d’Ivoire. Learn more »
In a second preelection statement released today, The Carter Center noted that while COVID-19 related restrictions continue to impact the activities of the election administration, political parties, candidates, and observers, the election process remains broadly on course for voting to take place on Nov. 8. Learn more »
Positive and Peaceful Elections: An Online Forum by The King Center and The Carter Center Learn more »
The Carter Center today released a preliminary report about Bolivia’s Oct. 18 general elections, which saw record participation and intense political competition despite the COVID-19 pandemic and the political tensions that have roiled the country in the past year. Learn more »
The International Election Observation Mission of the Electoral Institute for Sustainable Democracy in Africa (EISA) and The Carter Center express deep concern about the sharp rise in intercommunity tensions and the increasing level of violence, which have resulted in the deaths of at least eight people and injured several on Oct. 21 in Dabou in the Grand Ponts region. The joint EISA-Carter Center international election observation mission (IEOM) condemns all forms of violence whatever their origin and also the incidents and violence that have occurred throughout the electoral process. Learn more »
The Carter Center has joined the Georgia Secretary of State’s new Georgia Bipartisan Task Force on Safe, Secure, and Accessible Elections. Learn more »
Today marks the beginning of the election campaign, paving the way for a crucial stage in the electoral process before the presidential election on Oct. 31. The International Election Observation Mission of the Electoral Institute for Sustainable Democracy in Africa and The Carter Center deplores the loss of life and condemns the violence that has engulfed the electoral process, particularly during August 2020. Learn more »
The Carter Center this month will conduct a nationwide survey of Sudanese youth’s attitudes and perceptions of the ongoing political transition and plans to publicly share its findings in early 2021. Learn more »
In a preelection statement released today, The Carter Center commended the Union Election Commission for keeping the election process on track despite the extraordinary circumstances created by COVID-19. Learn more »
The Carter Center is presenting a virtual Conversations at The Carter Center event on the U.S. election featuring Michael Chertoff, former U.S. secretary of homeland security; Kevin Johnson, senior member of the Carter Center’s U.S. election expert study team and executive director of Election Reformers Network, and Jennifer Morrell, partner at The Elections Group. Suzanne Malveaux of CNN will moderate. Learn more »
The Carter Center, a not-for-profit organization advancing peace and health worldwide, has appointed 20 new members to its Board of Councilors, bringing total membership to 223. Learn more »
Two members of the Carter Center’s expert election team arrived in La Paz Saturday to continue in the field their analysis of the Bolivian electoral process, which the team has been carrying out remotely for two months. Learn more »
As part of a partnership with the Qatar Foundation’s World Innovation Summit for Health (WISH), The Carter Center announces new recipients of the Rosalynn Carter Fellowships for Mental Health Journalism in Qatar. Learn more »
The Electoral Institute for Sustainable Democracy in Africa (EISA), together with the Carter Center (TCC), announces the arrival and deployment of a Long-Term International Electoral Observation Mission (IEOM) to observe the presidential election of October 31, 2020 and the upcoming legislative elections in Republic of Côte d'Ivoire. The mission received accreditation from the Independent Electoral Commission (CEI) of the Republic of Côte d'Ivoire on August 19, 2020. Learn more »
Following accreditation by the Union Election Commission, The Carter Center is launching an international election observation mission to Myanmar’s Nov. 8 general elections. Learn more »
Rosalynn and I are saddened by the passing of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. A powerful legal mind and a staunch advocate for gender equality, she has been a beacon of justice during her long and remarkable career. I was proud to have appointed her to the U.S. Court of Appeals in 1980. We join countless Americans in mourning the loss of a truly great woman. We will keep her family in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time Learn more »
Rosalynn and I are saddened by the passing of our friend Bill Gates Sr. Bill worked tirelessly to create better opportunities for the poor and vulnerable around the world. His humanitarian work uplifted and built hope for generations in the United States, Africa, and beyond. His life and legacy affirm our shared humanity and responsibility to care for one another. We extend our deepest condolences to his family. Learn more »
Kashef Ijaz, M.D., M.P.H., has been appointed vice president for health programs at The Carter Center, effective Oct. 1. Learn more »
The Carter Center and Universidad de La Sabana in Bogotá, Colombia, in association with the Gabo Foundation, announce the recipients of the two annual fellowships awarded by the Rosalynn Carter Fellowships for Mental Health Journalism in Latin America. Learn more »
In response to diverse news reports about his views on absentee ballots, former U.S. President Jimmy Carter said today, “I approve the use of absentee ballots and have been using them for more than five years.” Learn more »
Barbara Smith, principal and founder of the international development consulting firm Mountain Time Development and a senior associate at the Center for Strategic & International Studies, has been named vice president of the Carter Center’s peace programs, effective Sept. 21. Learn more »
The first-ever virtual Carter Center Weekend fundraiser brought in just over $2,012,000 in donations and auction sales. Learn more »
Recognizing the scale of the challenges facing democratic elections in the U.S., The Carter Center plans to conduct several election-related activities before and after the November election to help build confidence in the process and results. Learn more »
The Carter Center commends the people of Belarus for their peaceful protest against an electoral process that is widely viewed as neither credible nor reflective of the will of the people. The Center urges the authorities of Belarus to begin peaceful dialogue with civil society organizations, trade unions, political parties, and other stakeholders to resolve the current crisis, with a view to conducting a new presidential election in line with international commitments and standards Learn more »
The Carter Center’s marquee annual fundraiser is going virtual this year, giving everyone the opportunity to gather online for a celebration that will include special messages from President and Mrs. Carter, up-close-and-personal looks at some of the Center’s programs, and the chance to bid on priceless artwork and memorabilia. Learn more »
Sudan’s Federal Ministry of Youth and Sports announced today that The Carter Center will support the building of a Youth-Focused Independent Observer Program for the country’s ongoing transition to democracy. Learn more »
As part of a partnership with The National media outlet in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), The Carter Center announces two new fellows for the Rosalynn Carter Fellowships for Mental Health Journalism Program in the UAE. Learn more »
The Carter Center commends the Guyana Elections Commission and Chairperson Claudette Singh for finalizing the results of the 2020 election. It extends its congratulations to President Irfaan Ali as he assumes Guyana’s highest office and applauds former President David Granger’s statesmanship in recognizing GECOM’s declaration of results. Learn more »
Rosalynn joins me in sending our condolences to all gathered today to mourn the loss of one of our nation’s great leaders. Throughout his remarkable life, John has been a blessing to countless people, and we’re proud to be among those whose lives he has touched. Learn more »
The Carter Center supports the decision by Bolivia’s Supreme Electoral Tribunal to postpone Bolivia’s election from Sept. 6 to Oct. 18 in response to concerns about the current spread of COVID-19. Learn more »
Rosalynn and I are saddened by the death of Congressman John Lewis. He made an indelible mark on history through his quest to make our nation more just. John never shied away from what he called “good trouble” to lead our nation on the path toward human and civil rights. Everything he did, he did in a spirit of love. All Americans, regardless of race or religion, owe John Lewis a debt of gratitude. We send our condolences and prayers to his family and friends. Learn more »
The controversial 2018 elections in the Democratic Republic of the Congo underscored the urgency of enacting electoral reforms, developed with broad-based consensus, to ensure that CENI operates as a transparent, inclusive, and credible organization that instills public confidence in the electoral process. Unfortunately, these goals have been undermined by the political divisions. Learn more »
To increase access to school-based behavioral health services in Georgia, a virtual town hall will be held on July 21. The discussion – supported by The Carter Center and co-hosted by Georgia Appleseed Center for Law & Justice and Voices for Georgia’s Children – will address ways to continue delivery of Georgia’s school-based mental health services in non-traditional settings during the pandemic. Learn more »
The Carter Center, a global leader in mental health, is pleased to announce the eight U.S. recipients of the 2020-2021 Rosalynn Carter Fellowships for Mental Health Journalism. The group includes a nonprofit news leader, local reporters, freelance journalists, and the inaugural Benjamin von Sternenfels Rosenthal Grant for Mental Health Investigative Journalism. Fellowships to international journalists will be announced by fall 2020. Learn more »
Democracies around the world need to adopt new ideas and approaches to ensure the lasting protection of democracy and civil liberties threatened by the COVID-19 pandemic, according to a new report endorsed by The Carter Center that was released today. Learn more »
Israel’s planned annexation of up to 30% of the West Bank as early as today would violate international laws prohibiting the acquisition of territory by force and changing the status of occupied territories. The planned move would violate the Oslo and Camp David Accords and jeopardize Israel’s peace treaties with Jordan and Egypt. Learn more »
The Carter Center issued its final report on the 2019 elections this week, highlighting both the Tunisian people’s ability to overcome potentially challenging political circumstances and the election commission’s remarkable work to conduct credible elections under a tight timeframe following the president’s death in office. Learn more »
The Rosalynn Carter Fellowships for Mental Health Journalism and the Mental Health Reporters Network in Liberia announce the inaugural class of mentees in mental health journalism. Learn more »
More than 500 political, civil leaders, Nobel Laureates and pro-democracy institutions – including the Carter Center’s CEO, Paige Alexander – have signed an open letter to defend democracy, warning that the freedoms we cherish are under threat from governments that are using the crisis to tighten their grip on power. Learn more »
As it does around the world, The Carter Center stands with those in our own community whose human rights and democratic rights are violated. The death of yet another African American man, Rayshard Brooks, at the hands of police in Atlanta last week once again emphasizes that America must come to grips with its long history of systemic racism and ensure full respect for and protection of the human rights of all, as established in our Bill of Rights and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Learn more »
The Carter Center commends the Guyana Elections Commission on the completion of the recount process and welcomes the CARICOM report, which indicates that despite minor flaws in the process, the recount results are acceptable and provide the basis for a declaration of results from the March 2 election. Learn more »
As COVID-19 continues to spread in Liberia, The Carter Center has answered the request of the government to assist with prevention efforts and mental health support. Learn more »
Rosalynn and I are pained by the tragic racial injustices and consequent backlash across our nation in recent weeks. Our hearts are with the victims’ families and all who feel hopeless in the face of pervasive racial discrimination and outright cruelty. We all must shine a spotlight on the immorality of racial discrimination. But violence, whether spontaneous or consciously incited, is not a solution. Learn more »
TUNE IN May 29: Carter Center Forum to Host Roundtable Discussion on Native American Participation in 2020 Elections . Learn more »
The Carter Center is deeply disappointed by the government of Guyana’s decision not to approve its recent requests to allow two accredited international observers to return to Guyana to observe the ongoing recount and the remainder of Guyana’s electoral process. Learn more »
Please join us on Wednesday, May 20, from 1:30-2:30 p.m. EDT (UTC -4), Carter Center Senior Advisor for Human Rights Karin Ryan will host a conversation between Jacqueline Novogratz and media executive Pat Mitchell about Novogratz’s latest book, "Manifesto for a Moral Revolution: Practices to Build a Better World." Learn more »
During the pandemic, mental health has been more openly discussed than at any time in recent memory. The media, health experts, members of the entertainment industry, and families are sharing tips to help each other cope with stress and anxiety caused by the outbreak. Journalists and experts will discuss whether this could be a tipping point for reducing the stigma that typically surrounds mental health discussions. Learn more »
The United States faces a series of critical challenges because of the COVID-19 pandemic, including serious impediments to holding safe, secure, and inclusive elections in November. Many voters across the U.S. are likely to find themselves in areas where the pandemic has not abated and where the health risks involved in going to polling locations will be unacceptably high. Learn more »
The Carter Center’s accredited observation mission remains committed to providing an independent observation of Guyana's electoral process, including the upcoming recount. The Center deployed an observer to Miami who was prepared to travel to Georgetown today, but unfortunately, his flight was denied approval to carry international election observers. Learn more »
I am distressed by the decision to withhold critically needed U. S. funding for the World Health Organization, especially during an international pandemic. WHO is the only international organization capable of leading the effort to control this virus. Learn more »
Center Forum to Host Roundtable Discussion on Protecting Human Rights During COVID-19 April 16 at 12 p.m. EDT Learn more »
The Carter Center, which serves as the Independent Observer of Mali’s 2015 peace agreement, today released a new report describing two persistent obstacles to the implementation of the agreement: the delay of electoral and administrative redistricting and continued problems preventing full redeployment of integrated army units. Learn more »
After careful consideration, The Carter Center has withdrawn its electoral experts and international observers from Guyana. The Center remains committed to promoting democracy and constitutional reform in Guyana and is willing to return when the electoral process resumes, assuming international travel is feasible. Learn more »
The international observer missions from the Commonwealth, the European Union, and The Carter Center issue the following statement: Learn more »
The Carter Center and the University of La Sabana in Colombia, in association with the Gabo Foundation, are now accepting applications for 2020-2021 Rosalynn Carter Fellowships for Mental Health Journalism in Latin America. Learn more »
As part of a partnership with The National media outlet in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), The Carter Center announces that applications are now open for the Rosalynn Carter Fellowships for Mental Health Journalism Program in the UAE. Learn more »
The international observer missions from the Commonwealth, the Organization of American States, the European Union, and The Carter Center issue the following statement. Learn more »
Rosalynn and I are proud that our grandson, Jason Carter, will be inducted as a member of Lions Clubs International. As Lions Clubs International celebrates the 42nd Annual Lions Day with the United Nations under the theme "Peace and International Understanding," our shared commitment to peace and service is more important now than ever. Learn more »
The Carter Center is deeply concerned about the events that took place today at the Office of the Returning Officer for Region 4 and the decision to announce results that had not been verified. Learn more »
In a preliminary statement released today, The Carter Center commended the people of Guyana for their participation in the March 2 election and encouraged all Guyanese to remain patient and peaceful as GECOM finalizes the results. Learn more »
The Carter Center first became involved in Guyana in the early 1990s at the invitation of President Desmond Hoyte and since then has been dedicated to the advancement of democracy in the country. These elections will be the fifth that The Carter Center has observed in Guyana since 1992, reflecting an ongoing commitment to the consolidation of democracy and a desire for Guyanese to live together in peace, security, and prosperity. Learn more »
The Carter Center Board of Trustees is pleased to announce that Paige Alexander has been appointed CEO of The Carter Center, effective June 16, 2020. She succeeds Ambassador (ret.) Mary Ann Peters, who is retiring. The CEO is charged with leading the Center into its next era of building peace, health, and hope for the world’s poorest people. Learn more »
Shyam K. Reddy, chief administrative officer and senior vice president of corporate development at BlueLinx Corporation, has been appointed chair of the Carter Center's Board of Councilors for 2020. The board comprises 215 members, who serve as a leadership advisory group that promotes understanding among opinion leaders and the broader community of The Carter Center and its activities. Learn more »
Aminata Touré, former prime minister of Senegal, and Jason J. Carter, chairperson of The Carter Center Board of Trustees, will co-lead the Carter Center’s international election observation mission in Guyana. Learn more »
The Carter Center is pleased to announce that applications for journalists who are U.S. citizens and residents are now being accepted for the 2020-21 Rosalynn Carter Fellowships for Mental Health Journalism. Learn more »
The third of six regional School-Based Behavioral Health Forums across Georgia will convene at Dublin High School on Feb. 6. These forums – co-hosted by The Carter Center, Georgia Appleseed Center for Law & Justice, and Voices for Georgia’s Children – assess the status of school-based behavioral health efforts in Georgia, identify and discuss strategies to eliminate barriers to success, and encourage the adoption of state and national best practices. Learn more »
Rosalynn joins me in sharing our condolences to the extended family and friends of Anne Cox Chambers. Ambassador Chambers was an important part of our lives for over six decades. Her life serves as a path for fairness and equality for everyone and especially for women and girls. Atlanta, our State of Georgia, and the world has lost a wonderful woman, business leader, and philanthropist. Rosalynn and I are grateful to have been among those whose lives were so richly touched by her. Learn more »
President Trump’s plan for unilateral annexation to Israel of a large piece of the occupied Palestinian territories offers the Palestinians fragmented statehood, without control of their borders, in four years and subject to certain conditions, and leaves the status of large parts of the West Bank to be determined in the future. Learn more »
A provisional total of 54 cases of Guinea worm disease were reported in 2019, The Carter Center announced Wednesday. Intensified surveillance and reporting incentives in endemic areas in recent years have produced expected fluctuations in the small number of Guinea worm cases. When The Carter Center assumed leadership of the program in 1986, about 3.5 million human cases occurred annually in 21 countries in Africa and Asia. Learn more »
The Carter Center, which serves as the Independent Observer of Mali’s 2015 peace agreement implementation, released its 2019 end-of-year report, which criticizes the overall stagnation of the process and urges vigorous measures to consolidate peace in Mali. Learn more »
Following an invitation from the government of Guyana, The Carter Center has launched an election observation mission to observe the March 2 general election in Guyana. Learn more »
Rosalynn and I are deeply saddened to learn of the death of Sultan Qaboos bin Said of Oman. His voice for peace and tolerance in the Middle East will be missed. He was a wise counsel and ally to me in the White House. After the White House, I was grateful for his support in our efforts to eradicate Guinea worm disease from the world. We extend our condolences to members of the royal family. Learn more »
In a statement released today, The Carter Center commended the Tunisian authorities and its people on the successful completion of the 2019 electoral process and urged Tunisian political leaders to move quickly to form a government before the one-month extension provided by the president expires Jan. 15, 2020. Learn more »
Rosalynn and I are saddened to learn of the passing of our friend Judge Haynes Townsend. Learn more »
The Carter Center today released its findings and recommendations from an election expert mission in the DRC deployed during the 2018 elections. Learn more »
As part of a partnership with The National media outlet in the United Arab Emirates, The Carter Center announces a new recipient of the Rosalynn Carter Fellowships for Mental Health Journalism Program. Learn more »
Following letters of invitation from the Muscogee (Creek) Nation Election Board and principal chief, The Carter Center deployed a small team of three international electoral experts to observe elections in Muscogee (Creek) Nation (MCN) for principal chief, second chief, and members of the National Council. The Center deployed observers to the Nov. 2, 2019, primary election and the Dec. 14, 2019, general election. Learn more »
Rosalynn and I are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Paul Volcker, whose economic acumen made him a giant of public service. Paul was as stubborn as he was tall, and although some of his policies as Fed chairman were politically costly, they were the right thing to do Learn more »
Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter was discharged from Phoebe Sumter Medical Center this afternoon, where he was treated for a urinary tract infection. He said he looks forward to further rest and recovery at home in Plains, Georgia. He and Mrs. Carter wish everyone peace and joy this holiday season. Learn more »
Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter was admitted to Phoebe Sumter Medical Center in Americus, Ga., this past weekend for treatment for a urinary tract infection. Learn more »
Former U.S President Jimmy Carter was released from Emory University Hospital this morning after successful surgery and recovery to relieve pressure on his brain caused by a subdural hematoma. He and Mrs. Carter look forward to enjoying Thanksgiving at home in Plains, where he will continue to recover. The Carters are grateful for all the prayers, cards, and notes they have received and hope everyone will join them in enjoying a special Thanksgiving. Learn more »
Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter is recovering at Emory University Hospital following surgery this morning to relieve pressure on his brain from a subdural hematoma. There are no complications from the surgery. President Carter will remain in the hospital as long as advisable for observation. We do not anticipate any further statements until he is released from the hospital. President and Mrs. Carter thank everyone for the many well-wishes they have received. Learn more »
Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter was admitted to Emory University Hospital this evening for a procedure to relieve pressure on his brain, caused by bleeding due to his recent falls. The procedure is scheduled for tomorrow morning. President Carter is resting comfortably, and his wife, Rosalynn, is with him. Learn more »
Following letters of invitation from the election board and principal chief, The Carter Center deployed a small team of observers to the Nov. 2 primary election in Muscogee (Creek) Nation for the tribe’s principal chief, second chief, and members of the National Council. A general election is anticipated on December 14, 2019. Learn more »
The Carter Center congratulates the Democratic Republic of Congo for being recognized by the International Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative Board as having made “meaningful progress” in improving extractive sector transparency. Learn more »
Following letters of invitation from the election board and principal chief, The Carter Center is preparing to deploy a small team of observers to the Nov. 2 primary election in Muscogee (Creek) Nation as well as a general election anticipated in December. Learn more »
Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter has been released from Phoebe Sumter Medical Center. He is looking forward to continuing to recuperate at his home in Plains, Georgia, and thanks everyone for their kind well wishes. Learn more »
Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter had a fall yesterday evening at his home in Plains, Georgia. He has been admitted to Phoebe Sumter Medical Center for observation and treatment of a minor pelvic fracture. He is in good spirits and is looking forward to recovering at home. Learn more »
The Carter Center is calling for global solidarity with activists facing increasingly violent retribution for their work to advance human rights and peace worldwide. The 12th meeting of the Human Rights Defenders Forum took place Oct. 12-15 and brought together activists from 28 countries. There was a special focus on attacks against female human rights defenders and peacemakers, who face even more severe violence than their male counterparts. Learn more »
In a preliminary statement released today, The Carter Center commended the Tunisian people and its election administration on the successful completion of the 2019 electoral cycle and their deep commitment to the democratic process, which required them to cast ballots in three successive elections in less than a month. Learn more »
The Carter Center condemns the murder of Anastacio Matavele, the head of a nonpartisan election observation organization in Mozambique, and calls for an immediate and thorough investigation to bring those responsible to justice. Learn more »
Dozens of activists, peacemakers, and community leaders from 28 countries will come together Oct. 12-15 for the Carter Center’s 12th Human Rights Defenders Forum, which this year focuses on “Building Solidarity toward Equality for All.” Learn more »
In a preliminary statement released today, The Carter Center commended the Tunisian election administration for conducting a well-run parliamentary election and expressed concern about the low voter turnout and a perceived lack of public confidence in the institution of parliament to realize the goals of the 2011 revolution. Learn more »
Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter had a fall today at his home in Plains, Georgia, that required stitches above his brow. He said he feels fine and wanted everyone to know that he and Mrs. Carter are eager to be at Habitat for Humanity’s Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter Work Project in Nashville, Tennessee, Oct. 6-11, starting with the opening ceremony this evening. Learn more »
Dozens of short-term observers arrived in Tunis this week to join the Carter Center’s international election observation mission for Tunisia's parliamentary election. Tana de Zulueta, a former member of Italy’s parliament, and Karen AbuZayd, a commissioner on the Independent Commission of Inquiry on the Syrian Arab Republic, will co-lead the delegation of more than 90 observers. Learn more »
The Carter Center Board of Trustees announced it is launching a $40 million fundraising campaign, including a $20 million Carter Center Challenge Fund, toward the eradication of Guinea worm disease, and Alwaleed Philanthropies, a global philanthropic foundation, said it would invest the first $1 million in matching support. Learn more »
Despite recent progress in the demobilization of combatants from former armed groups, foot-dragging and lack of support from decision-makers is significantly delaying the implementation of Mali’s 2015 peace agreement, according to a new Carter Center report. Learn more »
The Carter Center today released a preliminary statement about Tunisia’s Sept. 15 presidential election, which provided Tunisia with an opportunity to reinvigorate the country’s political transition, strengthen its democratic culture, and refocus on reforms that will improve the lives of its citizens. Learn more »
As part of a partnership with the Qatar Foundation’s World Innovation Summit for Health (WISH), The Carter Center announced today two new recipients of the Rosalynn Carter Fellowships for Mental Health Journalism Program in Qatar. In 2018, The Carter Center joined with WISH to develop a program designed to train students at universities in Qatar about accurate and ethical reporting on mental illnesses. The two students, from Northwestern University in Qatar (NU-Q), add to the two students trained from the inaugural cohort last year. See below for the journalist names and project topics. Learn more »
The Carter Center and the University of La Sabana, in association with the García Márquez Foundation, announces three new fellows for the 2019-2020 Rosalynn Carter Fellowships for Mental Health Journalism Latin America. Learn more »
The Carter Center today released a pre-election statement offering an assessment of the pre-election period for Tunisia’s 2019 elections, which was marked by the death of President Beji Caïd Essebsi and the arrest of businessman and presidential candidate, Nabil Karoui. The statement looks at amendments to the electoral law as well as at voter registration and candidate nominations. It also offers preliminary recommendations to electoral stakeholders. Learn more »
The second of six regional School-Based Behavioral Health Forums across Georgia will convene at Albany State University on Sept. 13 (more details below). These forums – co-hosted by The Carter Center, Georgia Appleseed Center for Law & Justice, and Voices for Georgia’s Children – assess the status of school-based behavioral health efforts in Georgia, identify and eliminate barriers to success, and encourage the adoption of national best practices. Learn more »
Working with the government of Liberia, The Carter Center has helped to train over 300 credentialed mental health clinicians who work in all 15 counties in the country; 140 of whom specialize in the needs of children and adolescents. Learn more »
The Carter Center has launched an election observation mission to observe the Sept. 15 presidential and Oct. 6 parliamentary elections in Tunisia. The Center has monitored several legislative and political processes during the country’s democratic transition following the revolution, starting with its observation of the 2011 National Constituent Assembly elections. The High Independent Authority for Elections (ISIE) has invited and accredited the Center to observe the national elections this year. Learn more »
The Carter Center announced today eight U.S. recipients of the 2019-2020 Rosalynn Carter Fellowships for Mental Health Journalism. The Center will train fellows on effective mental health reporting and support them as they report on a mental health topic of their choice. Learn more »
The nonprofit Carter Center raised more than $4.2 million at its annual Carter Center Weekend Auction and Retreat June 26-30 at Lansdowne Resort and Spa in Leesburg, Virginia. All proceeds will benefit the Center’s ongoing efforts to wage peace, fight disease, and build hope in the world's poorest and most forgotten countries. Learn more »
Photographs of five U.S. presidents signed by each, original oil paintings and a handcrafted cedar chest by U.S. President Jimmy Carter are among more than 150 items to be auctioned on June 29 to benefit the not-for-profit Carter Center. Learn more »
The Carter Center, a not-for-profit organization advancing peace and health worldwide, has appointed 32 new members to its Board of Councilors, bringing total membership to 230. Learn more »
President Carter will not be teaching his Sunday school class tomorrow. Though he is progressing well, he underestimated the amount of time he would need to recover from his recent hip replacement. He and his wife, Rosalynn, appreciate everyone's support and prayers and apologize for any inconvenience to those who traveled to hear his lesson. In their absence, Maranatha Baptist Church in Plains, Ga., would love to welcome all visitors. Learn more »
President Carter was released from Phoebe Sumter Medical Center today and will continue to recuperate at home. He will undergo physical therapy, as part of his recovery from hip replacement surgery. President Carter plans to teach Sunday school at Maranatha Baptist Church this weekend. Learn more »
BAMAKO, MALI (May 14, 2019) — The Carter Center, which is serving as Independent Observer of the implementation of the 2015 Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation in Mali, emanating from the Algiers process, today released its fourth report on the state of implementation. The report warns of recent backsliding in the implementation process and highlights the major blockages impeding progress. It also focuses on the state of reconciliation and justice in Mali. Learn more »
While leaving to go turkey hunting this morning, former U.S. President Jimmy Carter fell at his home in Plains, Georgia. He is recovering comfortably from surgery to repair a broken hip at Phoebe Sumter Medical Center in Americus, Georgia. His surgeon stated that the surgery was successful. His wife, Rosalynn, is with him. Learn more »
Recommendations on how to accelerate improvements in Georgia’s mental health system and meet the remaining obligations from the settlement agreement with the U.S. Department of Justice will be addressed during the 24th annual Rosalynn Carter Georgia Mental Health Forum on May 10, 2019, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at The Carter Center. Learn more »
This World Malaria Day, members of the global health community laud the dedication of thousands of Haitian health workers committed to accelerating efforts to eliminate malaria in Haiti. Learn more »
Rosalynn and I are deeply saddened to learn of the death of Dr. David Hamburg. Learn more »
The Carter Center today released a report analyzing the resolution of electoral disputes stemming from Kenya’s 2017 presidential and parliamentary elections, which found that lower courts faced significant challenges in assessing consistently whether alleged electoral violations were substantial enough to warrant annulment of election results. Learn more »
The first of six regional School-Based Behavioral Health Forums across Georgia will convene at The Carter Center on April 15 (more details below). These forums – co-hosted by The Carter Center, Georgia Appleseed Center for Law & Justice, and Voices for Georgia’s Children – will assess the status of school-based behavioral health efforts in those regions of Georgia, identify and eliminate barriers to success, and encourage the adoption of national best practices. During the April 15 event, panelists will focus on school-based behavioral health in the Atlanta metropolitan region and the anticipated release of new state funding to increase the number of mental health professionals in Georgia’s schools. Educators, parents, policy leaders, behavioral health experts and providers are encouraged to attend this public forum. Learn more »
In the past year, 26 states in the U.S. have adopted legislation to discourage support to the “Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions” (BDS) campaign advocated by Palestinian activists. The campaign aims to pressure Israel to respect Palestinian rights. These laws apply to individuals and business entities, and prevent them from receiving U.S. government contracts. Courts in Kansas and Arizona have struck down anti-BDS laws, declaring them unconstitutional as they infringe on rights protected by the First Amendment to freedom of expression. Learn more »
A Carter Center delegation led by Jason J. Carter, chairman of the Carter Center’s Board of Trustees, has been in Guyana this week meeting with key stakeholders to learn about the current challenges facing Guyana and to assess whether the Center could assist Guyanese going forward. Learn more »
In advance of International Women’s Day on March 8, a Carter Center brief highlights the need for Kenya’s Parliament to take action to facilitate women’s active and effective participation in civic and political affairs. While Kenya’s 2010 Constitution introduced progressive provisions to support women’s inclusion in elected and appointed bodies, Parliament has failed to pass the necessary implementing legislation to ensure more balanced gender representation at the national level. Learn more »
The Carter Center, which is serving as Independent Observer of the implementation of the 2015 Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation in Mali, today released its third report on the state of implementation in 2018. Learn more »
Applications from U.S. citizens and residents are now being accepted for eight one-year journalism fellowships with the Carter Center's Mental Health Program. These fellowships aim to enhance public understanding of mental health and substance use conditions and reduce stigma and discrimination against people living with these illnesses through balanced and accurate reporting. The deadline for applications is Wednesday, April 10, 2019, and the fellowship recipients will be announced Wednesday, July 17, 2019, on the Center's website. Learn more »
Venezuela is undergoing an historic moment as it attempts to reconcile deep political divisions that have undermined its democracy. The National Assembly that was freely elected in 2015, and subsequently disbanded by President Nicolas Maduro, has declared Juan Guaidó president of Venezuela through an interpretation of the presidential succession clause in the constitution approved in 1999 under President Hugo Chavez. Learn more »
The Carter Center expresses deep concern about the unfolding crisis in Venezuela and calls on all Venezuelans to work urgently toward a peaceful political solution with a clear road map to restore legitimate democratic governance. Learn more »
Just 28 human cases of Guinea worm disease were reported in 2018, down slightly from 30 cases reported in 2017. When The Carter Center assumed leadership of the Guinea Worm Eradication Program in 1986, there were an estimated 3.5 million human cases annually in 21 countries in Africa and Asia. Learn more »
Because of discrepancies between the official preliminary election results in the DRC and the results reported by some domestic observers and parties, The Carter Center expresses concern about the potential for insecurity and conflict and asks all political leaders to call on their supporters to refrain from violence and to pursue any challenges to the election results through legal channels. Learn more »
Forty years after U.S. President Jimmy Carter and Chinese leader Deng Xiaoping ended three decades of estrangement between the United States and the People’s Republic of China, The Carter Center will convene a three-day symposium on Sino-American relations. Learn more »
Harold Brown was one of the best-qualified and most effective defense secretaries who ever served our nation. He knew firsthand the price of war and why it was important to develop the conditions for peace. Learn more »
As the people of the Democratic Republic of Congo await the preliminary results of the Dec. 30 election, The Carter Center calls on all stakeholders to remain patient while the tabulation of final results is completed and urges election officials to ensure that the process proceeds transparently. Learn more »
The Carter Center is deeply concerned about the Nicaraguan government’s recent assault and continued repression of civil society organizations and the media. Learn more »
The Carter Center today released the final report from its observation mission of Liberia’s 2017 elections, outlining key findings and offering recommendations for reform to strengthen Liberia’s electoral process. Learn more »
Qatar Fund for Development (QFFD) is participating in the Sudan Public Health Training Initiative, which is supported by Qatar Fund for Development and overseen by The Carter Center in collaboration the Federal Ministry of Public Health in Sudan and Health Sciences Academy. The participation will take place from 10-13 December 2018. Learn more »
Rosalynn and I are deeply saddened by the death of former President George H.W. Bush. His administration was marked by grace, civility, and social conscience. Through his Points of Light initiative and other projects, he espoused a uniquely American volunteer spirit, fostering bipartisan support for citizen service and inspiring millions to embrace community volunteerism as a cherished responsibility. We again extend our heartfelt condolences to the Bush family. Learn more »
The Carter Center today released its Youth and Women’s Consultations on Political Participation in Kenya report, which outlines key challenges women and youth face when trying to participate in politics and offers detailed recommendations for strengthening their political engagement in future elections. Learn more »
We, the undersigned civil society organizations, support the acknowledgement by the 73rd session of the United Nations General Assembly of the OHCHR Special Rapporteur on Violence Against Women Report (A/73/301) on Violence Against Women in Politics. The report sends a vital message that violence against women in politics (VAWP) contributes to the underrepresentation and political disempowerment of women worldwide. We urge all member states to make concrete and accountable commitments to pursuing the recommendations of the report. Learn more »
Carter Center Chief Executive Officer Ambassador (ret.) Mary Ann Peters will visit Sudan Nov. 18 and 19 to explore ways The Carter Center can contribute to durable peace and advance efforts to control or eliminate neglected tropical diseases, particularly river blindness and trachoma. Learn more »
The Carter Center, which is serving as Independent Observer of the implementation of the 2015 Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation in Mali, released its second report today, which focuses on measures that could help accelerate implementation of the peace agreement. The report notes modest but real progress in the implementation of the agreement but also highlights problems impeding further progress. Learn more »
The Carter Center has partnered with The World Innovation Summit for Health (WISH), an initiative of Qatar Foundation, to announce an expansion of the Rosalynn Carter Fellowships for Mental Health Journalism program started with WISH in Qatar in 2016. Learn more »
The sustainability of democracy depends, in large part, on the establishment of institutions to protect Tunisians’ constitutional rights and freedoms, including independent constitutional authorities and a Constitutional Court. Learn more »
A new Lancet Commission report on mental health released today said that mental disorders are on the rise in every country in the world and will cost the global economy $16 trillion by 2030. The economic cost is primarily due to early onset of mental illness and lost productivity, with an estimated 12 billion working days lost due to mental illness every year. Learn more »
Nineteen clinicians specializing in child and adolescent mental health graduated today at Monrovia City Hall in Liberia from a training developed by the Carter Center’s Mental Health Program in partnership with the Liberia Ministry of Health, Ministry of Education, and Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection. Learn more »
Thirty-two states, including Georgia, get a failing grade for statutes designed to ensure equal access to mental health and addiction treatment, according to a report being issued today on the 10th anniversary of the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act. Learn more »
As part of the celebration of International Right to Know Day, The Carter Center, with support from the European Union, will launch a new one-year project, “Increasing Transparency in the Public Sector through Freedom-of-Information Training.” Learn more »
The Carter Center released its final comprehensive Kenya 2017 election observation report today, which outlines its key findings and offers recommendations for reform to strengthen Kenya’s electoral processes, including new annexes that lay out the Center’s findings on women’s participation and on the use of information and communications technology in elections. Learn more »
John McCain was a man of honor, a true patriot in the best sense of the word. Americans will be forever grateful for his heroic military service and for his steadfast integrity as a member of the United States Senate. Learn more »
Rosalynn and I are saddened to learn of the passing of Princeton Lyman. He deftly represented the United States as an ambassador to Nigeria and later to South Africa at critical points in both the history of those nations and in U.S.-Africa relations. Learn more »
Rosalynn and I are deeply grieved by the loss of Kofi Annan, and we extend our condolences to his wife Nane and to the other members of his family. Kofi was a cherished personal friend and an inspiration to all who knew him. Learn more »
The Carter Center and the Universidad de La Sabana, a private accredited university in Colombia, announced today three new recipients for the two fellowship slots for Colombia's Rosalynn Carter Fellowships for Mental Health Journalism. Learn more »
The Carter Center expresses grave concern about post-election tensions and the violent clashes that occurred today between armed security forces and protestors in Harare, which resulted in multiple casualties. Learn more »
Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter joined human rights defenders from 36 countries gathered at The Carter Center in calling for citizens and governments to work urgently to address the unequal treatment of people worldwide based on their race, gender, nationality, ethnicity, religion, or social and economic status. Learn more »
More than 60 activists, peacemakers, and community leaders from 36 countries will come together July 21-24 for the Carter Center’s annual Human Rights Defenders Forum to discuss “Restoring Faith in Freedom.” Learn more »
The Carter Center announced today eight U.S. recipients of the 2018-2019 Rosalynn Carter Fellowships for Mental Health Journalism. Selected from a pool of highly competitive applicants, the 22nd annual class brings the total to 197 journalists who have been awarded the fellowships to date. (See below for a list of journalist names and project topics.) Learn more »
The nonprofit Carter Center raised $3,524,890 at its annual Carter Center Weekend Auction on June 30, held this year at Skamania Lodge in Washington state. All proceeds will benefit the Center’s ongoing efforts to wage peace, fight disease, and build hope in the world's poorest and most forgotten countries. In addition to the auction totals, $600,000 was raised at the event for the Carter Center Mental Health Program and $75,000 for the Access to Information Program, bringing the grand total of the weekend to $4.2 million dollars raised. Learn more »
A lock of President John F. Kennedy’s hair, an original oil painting by President Jimmy Carter, a photograph of five U.S. presidents signed by each, and other presidential memorabilia are just a few of the items to be auctioned on June 30 to benefit the not-for-profit Carter Center. Proceeds will support the Center’s work to advance peace and health across the globe. President Carter and his wife, former First Lady Rosalynn Carter, will join invited friends and supporters for the auction and other activities during a five-day retreat June 27 – July 1 at the Skamania Lodge in Washington state. Learn more »
When I was first lady, I worked to call attention to the plight of refugees fleeing Cambodia for Thailand. I visited Thailand and witnessed firsthand the trauma of parents and children separated by circumstances beyond their control. The practice and policy today of removing children from their parents’ care at our border with Mexico is disgraceful and a shame to our country. Learn more »
The Carter Center congratulates its longtime partner Ghana, which has become the first sub-Saharan African country to be validated by the World Health Organization (WHO) for eliminating the eye disease trachoma as a public health problem. Learn more »
The Carter Center strongly condemns the violent retaliation and excessive use of force against demonstrators in Nicaragua, and calls on the government to cease all acts of violence and repression and to dismantle para-police groups and riot squads. Learn more »
The Carter Center, a not-for-profit organization advancing peace and health worldwide, has appointed 20 new members to its Board of Councilors, bringing total membership to 216. Learn more »
The Carter Center, which is serving as Independent Observer of the implementation of the 2015 Agreement on Peace and Reconciliation in Mali, released its first report today, saying that despite slow progress the signatories remain committed to the agreement. Learn more »
The Friends of the Inter-American Democratic Charter express alarm at the breakdown of the constitutional order in the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, which has had devastating effects on the Venezuelan people and their human rights. Learn more »
New CDC research into children’s mental health services and policies will be unveiled during the 23nd annual Rosalynn Carter Georgia Mental Health Forum on May 11, 2018, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at The Carter Center. This event is open to the public, but registration is required. Learn more »
The Carter Center repudiates the violent events that occurred during demonstrations protesting reforms to the social security law in Nicaragua. We lament the injuries and loss of life and strongly condemn the disproportionate use of public force. Equally concerning were the obstacles to the media’s ability to report on these events, including attacks on journalists and seizure of equipment. Learn more »
Rosalynn and I are saddened by the death of Barbara Bush. She touched the hearts of millions with her warmth, generosity, and keen wit. The matriarch of a family dedicated to serving, she urged volunteerism as a way for all citizens to participate in our nation’s progress. Through her own work to promote literacy as a value in every American home, countless families now have the knowledge and skills they need to thrive in all aspects of their lives. She will be missed. Learn more »
Nineteen clinicians specializing in child and adolescent mental health graduated today in Monrovia, Liberia, from a training developed by the Carter Center’s Mental Health Program in partnership with the Liberia Ministry of Health, Ministry of Education, and Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection. Learn more »
A Carter Center report issued today by its expert electoral mission for the March 7 general elections in Sierra Leone urges the two main parties to support a peaceful and genuine process for the runoff scheduled for March 27. Learn more »
Zell Miller left an indelible mark on the history of Georgia. He was one of Georgia’s longest serving public servants and left our state with a legacy that is highlighted by the Hope Scholarships that provide an education for our young students. Learn more »
The world’s newest nation, South Sudan, has succeeded in interrupting transmission of Guinea worm disease, the country’s minister of health announced Wednesday at The Carter Center. As of the end of February 2018, South Sudan, which gained independence from Sudan in 2011, has recorded zero cases of Guinea worm disease for 15 consecutive months. Because the Guinea worm life cycle is about a year, a 15-month absence of cases indicates the interruption of transmission. Learn more »
Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Health has interrupted transmission of river blindness in two large states and as a result will stop mass drug administration (MDA) of ivermectin (Mectizan®) in 2018. Learn more »
The Carter Center, MAP International, and the Liberian Ministry of Health have formed a new partnership to combat a growing mental health crisis in Liberia. Learn more »
The Carter Center released its final election report today, presenting its comprehensive findings from Kenya’s 2017 electoral period and offering recommendations to help strengthen Kenya’s future electoral processes. Learn more »
The following international election observation missions (IEOMs) present in Sierra Leone: Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), African Union (AU), The Commonwealth, Electoral Institute for Sustainable Democracy in Africa (EISA), European Union (EU), and The Carter Center (TCC). Learn more »
The Carter Center has deployed a team of electoral experts to assess the process surrounding Sierra Leone’s March 7 presidential, parliamentary, and local elections. Learn more »
Rosalynn and I are deeply saddened to learn of the death of The Reverend Billy Graham. Tirelessly spreading a message of fellowship and hope, he shaped the spiritual lives of tens of millions of people worldwide. Broad-minded, forgiving, and humble in his treatment of others, he exemplified the life of Jesus Christ by constantly reaching out for opportunities to serve. Learn more »
In a ceremony today in Khartoum, Sudan, The Carter Center joined officials from the Sudan Federal Ministry of Health and other dignitaries to distribute critical supplies, textbooks, and equipment as part of a five-year partnership to improve the country’s maternal and child health education program efforts. Learn more »
Former First Lady Rosalynn Carter had successful surgery Sunday, Feb. 18, to remove troubling scar tissue from a portion of her small intestine caused by removal of a cyst many years ago. She will remain a few days at Emory University Hospital for rest and recovery. Learn more »
The Tunisian Revolution was triggered by disadvantaged populations who demanded a development strategy that was just and sustainable, which would redress unequal development among Tunisia’s regions. Learn more »
Applications from U.S. citizens and residents are now being accepted for eight one-year journalism fellowships with the Carter Center's Mental Health Program. These fellowships aim to enhance public understanding of mental health and substance use conditions and reduce stigma and discrimination against people living with these illnesses through balanced and accurate reporting. The deadline for applications is Wednesday, April 11, 2018, and the fellowship recipients will be announced Wednesday, July 11, 2018, on the Center's website, www.cartercenter.org. The 2018-2019 fellowship year begins in September 2018. Learn more »
The Carter Center, together with its partners, recognizes continued progress in the global Guinea worm eradication campaign. In 2017, there were only 20 villages with cases of Guinea worm disease in two countries, both in Africa, compared to 23,735 villages in 21 countries on two continents in 1991. Learn more »
In recent decades, the United States has made great strides in ensuring that those who experience mental illness and substance use disorders have access to affordable treatment services. However, changing health care priorities are jeopardizing some of those gains. Come hear about ways to protect and advance policies that support access to this essential aspect of health care. Learn more »
The Carter Center today announced that it has chosen former U.S. Ambassador Bisa Williams to spearhead its efforts as the official independent observer of Mali’s 2015 Peace Agreement. Learn more »
This is the Carter Center’s preliminary report on the Dec. 26 voting and counting processes for Liberia’s presidential runoff election. It is important to note that the election process is ongoing and that there are still important steps to be completed before the Center can provide an overall assessment. Learn more »
The Carter Center today issued a post-election statement detailing its findings related to Nepal’s vote-counting process. Learn more »
The Carter Center commends the hard work done by the Commission on Children’s Mental Health and the recommendations included in their final report. Learn more »
In a preliminary statement released today, The Carter Center said that despite political tensions and logistical and operational challenges, the voting process in Nepal’s 2017 federal and provincial elections has generally been well-conducted. Learn more »
Following letters of invitation from the tribal council, legislature, and election commission, The Carter Center is preparing to deploy a small team of observers to the Dec. 12 general election in the Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes. Learn more »
President Donald Trump’s announcement recognizing Jerusalem as the capital of Israel and ordering the Department of State to start preparations to move the U.S. embassy there damages the credibility of the U.S. as an effective mediator and undermines hope for a two-state solution. Since 1967, the international community has been unanimous in rejecting such a shift and in considering East Jerusalem part of the occupied Palestinian territory. Learn more »
The Carter Center's election observation mission enters a new phase Saturday with the arrival of the short-term observer delegation in advance of phase two of Nepal’s parliamentary and provincial elections, to be held on Dec. 7. Learn more »
The Liberian Ministry of Foreign Affairs released the country’s first Mental Health Act and distributed the official handbill in Liberia this week. Learn more »
The Carter Center urges all parties to respect today’s unanimous decision by Kenya’s Supreme Court to uphold the results of the Oct. 26 fresh presidential election and calls on political leaders to initiate a process of sustained national dialogue to heal the wounds aggravated by the often tense and tumultuous electoral period. Learn more »
The Carter Center deeply regrets the decision of the Cambodian Supreme Court to dissolve the opposition Cambodia National Rescue Party. The decision, taken in response to a government-initiated lawsuit, follows a government crackdown on peaceful opposition that has included the arrest of CNRP leader Kem Sokha in early September and the closure of numerous media outlets. Learn more »
The Carter Center has launched an international election observation mission to Nepal’s Nov. 26 and Dec. 7 parliamentary and provincial elections. Learn more »
In a statement about Kenya’s Oct. 26 election released today, The Carter Center urged Kenya’s political leaders to engage in constructive dialogue to bridge the gap between the opposition and ruling parties, and their respective supporters, following a tense electoral period. Learn more »
As today’s Supreme Court ruling means a significant delay in the Liberian presidential run-off originally scheduled for Nov. 7, The Carter Center reiterates its call for all political parties to reaffirm their commitments to a peaceful process and ensure that their supporters maintain calm and exercise patience as they await resolution of electoral disputes. Learn more »
The Carter Center and the Friends of the Inter-American Democratic Charter are conducting pre-election visits to Honduras in advance of the Nov. 26 general elections. Learn more »
The Carter Center today released the first part of a comprehensive report, A State Affair: Privatizing Congo’s Copper Sector, which is the culmination of years of research on the contractual and financial practices of the Democratic Republic of Congo’s state-owned mining company, Gécamines, and its most important investment partners. Learn more »
As Liberia prepares for a presidential run-off election, The Carter Center acknowledges the historic opportunity for the country to proceed with a peaceful transition of power from one democratically elected president to another. Learn more »
We the Heads of the undersigned international observer missions present in Kenya issue this communiqué on the election rescheduled for the 28th of October. Learn more »
The Carter Center announced today that it is unveiling innovative modifications to the Congo Mines website (www.congomines.org) to make the mapping portal interactive and to provide previously inaccessible information on local development planning related to mining projects in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Learn more »
The current political and electoral context in Kenya is marked by increased insecurity, a lack of dialogue, and narrowing prospects for a credible presidential election on Oct. 26. Therefore, The Carter Center urges Kenya’s key political leaders to use the limited time remaining before the scheduled polls to engage in dialogue to find a mutually acceptable way forward so that the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) can conduct fresh presidential elections in a peaceful and secure environment. Learn more »
Following invitations from the Cheyenne and Arapaho legislative branch, the Tribal Council, the Cheyenne and Arapaho Election Commission, and with the welcome of Cheyenne and Arapaho citizens, The Carter Center deployed a limited election observation mission of two international election experts to assess the Oct. 3 primary elections in the Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes. Learn more »
Millions of Nigerians no longer are at risk of a disfiguring tropical disease, thanks to a pioneering partnership between the Federal Ministry of Health and The Carter Center. Learn more »
In a preliminary statement issued today, The Carter Center commended Liberians for the calm and peaceful atmosphere of their nation’s Oct. 10 election. Learn more »
The Carter Center today issued a statement urging Kenya’s political leaders to work with the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to come to a consensus on the changes necessary to hold Oct. 26’s presidential election in accordance with the ruling of the Supreme Court, which ordered the fresh polls. Learn more »
Former President of Bolivia Carlos Mesa and former Vice President of Guatemala Eduardo Stein, in their capacity as members of the Friends of the Inter-American Democratic Charter (FIADC) and experts on electoral-political processes, will travel to Managua, Nicaragua, Oct. 3-6, 2017, for a Carter Center/FIADC high-level visit. This visit will focus on analyzing the electoral environment in the country and promoting a peaceful election process for Nicaragua’s upcoming municipal elections. Learn more »
Following letters of invitation from the Tribal Council, Legislature, and Election Commission, The Carter Center is deploying a team of observers to the Oct. 3 primary election in the Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes. The Carter Center respects the tribes’ sovereign status and is conducting this election observation mission with the understanding that these are elections of a sovereign people for their government. Learn more »
The Carter Center today released a pre-election statement summarizing key findings from the campaign period and pre-electoral environment in the lead-up to Liberia’s presidential and legislative elections on Oct. 10. Learn more »
The Carter Center, in collaboration with the National Democratic Institute and the Violeta B. de Chamorro Foundation, held a pair of events on domestic electoral observation and the role of the media in electoral processes Sept. 26-27 in Managua, Nicaragua. Learn more »
The Carter Center convened leading academics, activists, and policymakers from around the world Sept. 25-27 to discuss the growing threat of Islamophobia and seek effective solutions. Hate crimes against Muslims are at an all-time high. According to a recent report issued by the Southern Poverty Law Center, the total number of anti-Muslim hate groups in the United States grew 197 percent from 2015 to 2016. In 2016, anti-Muslim hate crimes surged 67 percent, reaching a level of violence not seen since the aftermath of 9/11. Learn more »
Twenty-two clinicians specializing in child and adolescent mental health graduated today in Monrovia, Liberia, from a training developed by the Carter Center’s Mental Health Program in partnership with the Liberia Ministry of Health, Ministry of Education, and Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection. Learn more »
As part of a partnership with the Qatar Foundation’s World Innovation Summit for Health (WISH), The Carter Center announced today two new recipients of the Rosalynn Carter Fellowships for Mental Health Journalism Program in Qatar. Learn more »
As Liberia moves toward its third post-conflict election and a historic transfer of power, the Carter Center’s international election observation mission today released a statement on the process to date, which includes recommendations to ensure a peaceful, credible election. Learn more »
The “One America Appeal” launched last week by all five living former presidents to raise private money for hurricane victims today announced that their efforts will also aid Floridians impacted by Hurricane Irma through the Florida Disaster Fund, following its activation by Governor Rick Scott. Learn more »
All five living former American presidents have joined together to issue the “One America Appeal” to ask their fellow citizens and friends around the world to support the staggering recovery needs from Hurricane Harvey. As the nation carefully watches the advance of Hurricane Irma, the presidents stand ready to expand their appeal to help those affected by that storm. Learn more »
The Carter Center joins Panama in celebrating the 40th anniversary of the signing of the Torrijos-Carter Treaties. Learn more »
Following the decision issued today by Kenya’s Supreme Court, The Carter Center commends the court for conducting an open and transparent judicial process, which gave all parties the opportunity to be heard and ensured due process consistent with the constitution and laws of Kenya. Learn more »
The Carter Center, in collaboration with the Institute for Strategic Studies and Public Policies (IEEPP), recently held a camp outside Managua to help young people identify and propose local policies, programs, and projects that respond to the needs and demands of Nicaraguan youth. Learn more »
The Carter Center has launched an international election observation mission to Liberia’s Oct. 10 presidential and legislative elections. Learn more »
Rosalynn and I join thousands across our nation in mourning the passing of Cecil Andrus, a friend from the time we served together as governors. Cece was the only person I considered for the cabinet post of secretary of the interior, and together we made conservation history with the successful passage of the Alaska lands legislation, which doubled the size of the National Parks, established large additions to the National Wildlife Refuge System, designated new wild and scenic rivers and protected for future generations entire ecosystems such as the Gates of the Arctic. Learn more »
In a signing ceremony today in Khartoum, Sudan, The Carter Center joined officials from the Qatar Fund for Development, the Sudanese Federal Ministry of Health, and other dignitaries, including the ambassador of the state of Qatar to the Republic of Sudan, to mark the beginning of the first phase of a five-year partnership to improve maternal and child health in Sudan. Learn more »
Following the release of its Aug. 10 preliminary statement, The Carter Center continues to follow the electoral process in Kenya, including the tallying and public posting of official results and the judicial review of any electoral petitions. Learn more »
Carter Center CEO Ambassador (ret.) Mary Ann Peters is in Liberia from Aug. 15-21 to review Center health and peace programs and discuss program goals and progress with partners in government, civil society, and the international community. Learn more »
The harsh rhetoric from Washington and Pyongyang during recent months has exacerbated an already confrontational relationship between our countries, and has probably eliminated any chance of good faith peace talks between the United States and North Korea. In addition to restraining the warlike rhetoric, our leaders need to encourage talks between North Korea and other countries, especially China and Russia. Learn more »
The Carter Center commends the people of Kenya for the remarkable patience and resolve they demonstrated during the Aug. 8 elections for president, governors, senators, the national assembly, women’s representatives, and county assemblies. Learn more »
We, the heads of the following international observer missions present in Kenya — African Union (AU), Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA), the Commonwealth, East African Community (EAC), European Union (EU), International Conference of the Great Lakes Region (ICGLR), Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), National Democratic Institute (NDI) and The Carter Center — have agreed that ... Learn more »
We the heads of the following international observer missions present in Kenya — African Union (AU), Common Market for East and Southern Africa (COMESA), the Commonwealth, East Africa Community (EAC), European Union (EU), International Conference of the Great Lakes Region (ICGLR), Intergovernmental Authority for Development (IGAD), National Democratic Institute (NDI) and The Carter Center... Learn more »
As part of a partnership with the Al Jalila Foundation, The Carter Center announced today two new recipients of the Rosalynn Carter Fellowships for Mental Health Journalism Program in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Learn more »
The Carter Center and the Universidad de La Sabana, a private accredited university in Colombia, announced today three new recipients of two fellowship slots for Colombia's Rosalynn Carter Fellowships for Mental Health Journalism. Learn more »
The Carter Center International Observation Mission in Kenya offers its condolences to the family of Mr. Christopher Msando, ICT manager at Kenya’s Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission. The Center’s technical experts enjoyed a productive relationship with Mr. Msando and are personally saddened by the loss. Learn more »
The Carter Center is dismayed by the deplorable events that have taken place in Venezuela in recent days. Learn more »
In a pre-election statement released today, The Carter Center commended Kenya’s Independent Election and Boundaries Commission on its efforts to keep the Aug. 8 election on track despite many challenges. Learn more »
— We, the members of the group of the Friends of the Inter-American Democratic Charter, committed to the promotion and defense of democratic values, met in Atlanta to discuss the situation in our hemisphere and identify challenges that limit democracy in our region Learn more »
The Carter Center announced today eight U.S. recipients of the 2017-2018 Rosalynn Carter Fellowships for Mental Health Journalism. Selected from a pool of highly competitive applicants, the 21st annual class brings the total to 189 journalists who have been awarded the fellowships to date. Learn more »
Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter was discharged from St. Boniface General Hospital this morning to return to the Habitat for Humanity build site in Winnipeg. He attended the morning devotional at 8 a.m. kicking off the last day of the annual Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter Work Project in Canada. Learn more »
Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter became dehydrated this morning while working at a Habitat for Humanity build site in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. Learn more »
President Carter has been working hard all week. He was dehydrated working in the hot sun and has been taken offsite for observation. He encourages everyone to stay hydrated and keep building. Any further updated will come from the Carter Center. Learn more »
The release of Leopoldo Lopez from prison to “house arrest” is an important step toward restoring democratic order in Venezuela. However, he is still not free. Changing one prison for another is not freedom. The prolonged arbitrary detention of Lopez and other political prisoners criminalizes the political activities of opposition groups, which is unacceptable in a democratic society. Learn more »
The annual auction at this year’s Carter Center Weekend, which took place June 21-25 near Lake Tahoe, California, brought in more than $2,705,500 — and netted an additional $1,050,000 in restricted donations for its trachoma program. Learn more »
A mahogany four-poster bed designed by former U.S. President Jimmy Carter and created by master furniture maker Andrew Reid is among more than 150 items to be auctioned on June 24 to benefit the not-for-profit Carter Center. Proceeds will support the Center's work to advance peace and health across the globe. Learn more »
Former U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry and former Prime Minister of Senegal Aminata Touré will co-lead the Carter Center’s election observation mission in Kenya. The mission will deploy more than 50 observers throughout the country on election day. Learn more »
The Carter Center, a not-for-profit organization advancing peace and health worldwide, has appointed 21 new members to its Board of Councilors, bringing total membership to 211. Learn more »
Rosalynn and I were deeply saddened when we learned that Gregg Allman had passed. I met Gregg through Phil Walden of Capricorn Records, which was headquartered in Macon. Learn more »
Rosalynn and I are saddened by the death of Zbigniew Brzezinski. He was an important part of our lives for more than four decades and was a superb public servant. Learn more »
The Carter Center congratulates Liberia on the passage of its first law to improve health care for people with mental illnesses and prevent discrimination against them. Learn more »
On May 25, The Carter Center held a forum titled “The Responsibility of Citizens in the Strengthening of Democracy” to discuss the importance of citizen engagement in democratic processes, including domestic electoral observation. Learn more »
The Carter Center today released its final report on Guyana’s 2015 general and regional elections. The report summarizes the Carter Center’s observation activities and makes recommendations to the Guyanese authorities to improve future elections to help bring them in line with international standards for democratic elections and Guyana’s own legal framework. Learn more »
The Carter Center is hosting on June 15 a discussion on anxiety disorders with Rosalynn Carter Mental Health Journalism Fellow Andrea Petersen and Carter Center Mental Health Program staffer Rebecca Palpant Shimkets. Learn more »
At the invitation of Kenya’s Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission, The Carter Center has launched an international election observation mission for the country’s Aug. 8 general election. Learn more »
New research about the factors associated with mental, behavioral, and developmental disorders in children aged 2-8 years will be discussed this year during the 22nd annual Rosalynn Carter Georgia Mental Health Forum on May 12, 2017, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at The Carter Center in Atlanta. Learn more »
More than 70 activists, peacemakers, and community leaders from 31 countries will come together May 8-9 for the Carter Center’s annual Human Rights Defenders Forum to discuss strategies for protecting human rights in the wake of rising authoritarianism. Learn more »
The Carter Center congratulates the people of Myanmar for participating in important by-elections on April 1. The Center did not directly observe the elections, but supported the observation efforts of local partner Election Education and Observation Partners (EEOP). Learn more »
The OPEC Fund for International Development (OFID) has awarded The Carter Center a grant of US$800,000 to help support an initiative to eliminate blinding trachoma in Mali and Niger. Learn more »
Twenty-one clinicians specializing in child and adolescent mental health graduated today in Kakata City, Liberia, from a training developed by The Carter Center’s Mental Health Program in partnership with the Liberia Ministry of Health, Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection. Learn more »
The Carter Center and European Union have awarded certificates of distinction to nearly 70 Liberian government officials, including officers of the Liberia National Police, at the end of training to build their capacity in implementing the 2010 Freedom of Information Act. Learn more »
The Carter Center deployed a delegation of international electoral experts to Liberia to assess the voter registration process and the pre-election environment in advance of general elections anticipated in October 2017, when voters will elect a new president and 73 members of the House of Representatives. Learn more »
Efforts to eliminate blinding trachoma as a public health problem in the West African nations of Mali and Niger will receive US$11.725 million in additional support from the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation, to be implemented by The Carter Center, Helen Keller International, and Sightsavers, the organizations announced Wednesday. Learn more »
The Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum, The Carter Center, and Emory University’s Institute for Developing Nations invite you to learn how museum design, the hunt for global health’s holy grail (eradication), and sheer human determination intersect in a new exhibition at the Jimmy Carter Museum. Countdown to Zero: Defeating Disease explores the social and scientific innovations that make disease eradication possible. Learn more »
Following an invitation from the National Election Commission of Liberia, The Carter Center will deploy a limited mission of international electoral experts to Liberia to assess the voter registration process and the pre-election environment in advance of general elections anticipated in October 2017. Learn more »
Eight bold solutions to critical social problems were named semi-finalists today in 100 and Change, a global competition for a single $100 million grant from MacArthur. The proposals address challenges ranging from eliminating needless blindness to educating children displaced by conflict, in places from Nigeria to Nepal to the United States. Learn more »
The Carter Center and its Congolese civil society partners will present key findings from fiscal analyses of five major mining projects in Democratic Republic of Congo at an event that will run from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 14, at the Sultani Hotel, 30 Avenue De La Justice. Learn more »
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Over one billion people around the world suffer from neglected tropical diseases, a group of illnesses that tend to strike marginalized communities in the developing world. Learn more »
Applications from U.S. residents are now being accepted for eight one-year journalism fellowships with the Carter Center's Mental Health Program. These fellowships aim to enhance public understanding of mental health issues and reduce stigma and discrimination against people with mental illnesses through balanced and accurate reporting. Learn more »
The Carter Center urges the government of Democratic Republic of the Congo to release the contract for the transfer of Congo’s most productive copper mining joint venture, Tenke Fungurume Mining (TFM), to new investors. Learn more »
The Carter Center commends the participants of the recent talks held under the auspices of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Congo (CENCO), including representatives of the presidential majority, opposition, and civil society, whose hard work and perseverance resulted in an inclusive political agreement on Dec. 31, 2016. Learn more »
The Carter Center commends Tunisia’s parliament, the Assembly of the Representatives of the People (ARP), for its efforts to strengthen legal protections for the fundamental rights provided for in the 2014 Constitution and to establish key constitutionally mandated institutions. While important progress has been made in these areas during the last two years, the Center recommends that the ARP take steps to ensure it has full legislative authorities so that it can fulfill its duties to pass important legislation. Learn more »
In 2016, only three countries — Chad, Ethiopia, and South Sudan, reported a total of 25 human cases of Guinea worm disease. For the first time, Mali reported none. In 2015, four countries — Chad, Ethiopia, Mali, and South Sudan — had reported 22 cases. Learn more »
Countdown to Zero: Defeating Disease, a multimedia exhibition opening at the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum on Jan. 11, 2017, explores the factors that determine whether a disease can be eradicated and the scientific and social innovations that are making it possible. Learn more »
The Carter Center welcomes the recent regulations issued by the government of Sudan aimed at facilitating humanitarian relief throughout the country and looks forward to further discussions with the government and other stakeholders on the specific rollout of the new directives. Learn more »
The Carter Center, the impartial nongovernmental organization led by former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, held meetings earlier this month with key members of the Sudanese government, civil society, and opposition. Learn more »
The Carter Center, the impartial non-governmental organization founded and led by former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, plans to hold three meetings in the coming days with a group of international experts and key Sudanese stakeholders to discuss possibilities for peace in Sudan. Learn more »
The Carter Center commends the decision by the Ministry of Relations with Constitutional Authorities, Civil Society and Human Rights to launch public consultations in preparation for the Tunisia’s first periodic report to the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) since the passage of the new constitution in 2014. Learn more »
Rosalynn and I share our sympathies with the Castro family and the Cuban people on the death of Fidel Castro. Learn more »
The Carter Center, with financial support from the European Union and other donors, has launched a certificate program to build the capacity of 90 government officials to implement the 2010 Freedom of Information Act. Learn more »
On behalf of the staff of The Carter Center, we extend our congratulations to Bill and Melinda Gates on receiving the Presidential Medal of Freedom Learn more »
More than 140 health and corporate wellness leaders will come together Nov. 17-18 to discuss ways to improve mental health and well-being by addressing behavioral health within defined populations such as communities, organizations, and other groups. Learn more »
The health programs of The Carter Center have surpassed a major milestone: The organization on Nov. 4 celebrated assisting with the distribution of 500 million doses of donated medication to combat five neglected tropical diseases in 14 countries in Africa and Latin America. Learn more »
Recent claims about rigging of U.S. elections are unfounded and irresponsible. Based on our knowledge of the electoral system in the United States and of the many independent analyses of U.S. polling processes, The Carter Center has great confidence in the overall administrative integrity of U.S. elections. Checks and balances within our electoral system exist to protect it against manipulation. These include processes and checks before and after election day to ensure the integrity of the election process, such as pre-election testing of voting technology and postelection audits that take place in some states; the widespread presence of agents from both parties in polling stations; and the broad access to election results given to the media and the public, enabling transparent reviews of the election results. The American electoral process also benefits from the hard work and dedication of hundreds of thousands of poll workers and election officials, who represent both parties and ensure the integrity of the voting and counting process. Learn more »
Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter and The Carter Center congratulate President Juan Manuel Santos on receiving the 2016 Nobel Prize for Peace. The peace prize is a testament to the unfaltering commitment of President Santos to bring a 52-year conflict to an end in Colombia. Learn more »
An article published in Al Akhbar, a Moroccan newspaper, on Sept. 21, makes false allegations against Moroccan preacher Oustada Naima Ben Yaich, who was a participant in a Carter Center workshop earlier in the month. The Carter Center strongly refutes the false allegations in the article entitled, “The preacher Ben Yaich incites international jurists against Moroccan Security Services in a Countering Daesh workshop in Switzerland.” Learn more »
Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter and The Carter Center congratulate President Jimmy Morales and the people of Guatemala for eliminating onchocerciasis (river blindness) in the nation, as verified recently by the World Health Organization (WHO). Learn more »
The Carter Center urges the Assembly of the Representatives of the People to move quickly to adopt key amendments to the draft electoral law so that municipal and regional elections can be held as soon as possible. Learn more »
The Carter Center congratulates the people of Colombia on this historic day, which opens the door to peace after a 50-year civil war. Learn more »
The Carter Center is deeply concerned about key aspects of the 2016 Zambian electoral process in both the pre- and post-electoral period, especially the failure of Zambia’s institutions to provide a level playing field prior to election day and adequate due process to ensure a fair hearing and effective remedy for electoral petitions filed following the polls. Unfortunately, this represents a significant step backward for Zambia. Learn more »
For the first time, journalists from Middle Eastern countries will participate in the annual meeting of The Rosalynn Carter Fellowships for Mental Health Journalism Program held at The Carter Center each year. Fellows from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Qatar join the 20th class of fellows in a journalism program which aims to reduce the stigma of those living with mental health conditions. Learn more »
The Carter Center hopes that today’s decision by the Palestinian High Court of Justice to postpone municipal elections in Gaza and the West Bank will not result in a long delay or the cancelling of these elections. Learn more »
Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter and Organization of American States Secretary General Luis Almagro met in Plains, Georgia, Thursday to exchange ideas on matters relating to democracy and human rights in the region. Learn more »
Uganda has successfully freed 821,230 people, the largest number to be freed from river blindness globally based on the latest WHO guidelines. This has expedited the process of achieving its goal of eliminating river blindness (onchocerciasis) nationwide by 2020. At its peak, the vector-transmitted parasitic worm caused eye and skin disease in 37 districts in Uganda, with about 6.7 million people at risk. Learn more »
The Carter Center has partnered with the UBS Optimus Foundation to improve the well-being of vulnerable youth in Liberia by tailoring and strengthening the national mental health care system to address the unique needs of children and adolescents. Learn more »
The Carter Center congratulates the people of Colombia on the historic agreement announced today that will bring an end to a 50-year civil war between the government and the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia – People’s Army (FARC-EP). Learn more »
Women in Bangladesh cannot access government information as easily as can men, according to a new study conducted by The Carter Center in collaboration with the Manusher Jonno Foundation, and with the support of the Information Commission of Bangladesh. Learn more »
The Carter Center today released the final report of its assessment of the Nov. 8, 2015, general elections in Myanmar. Learn more »
The Carter Center expresses concerns regarding pre-election environment and urges patience while results come in. Learn more »
The Carter Center, with partners at the National Conference of State Legislatures, today launched a webpage on election observation in the United States. The page houses research that examines access and current regulations for election observers in each of the 50 states, including a state-by-state breakdown of access and accreditation for different types of observers. Learn more »
The Carter Center’s Mental Health Program invites the media to a screening of the documentary “Requiem for a Running Back,” followed by a panel discussion and Q&A on the issues and stigma associated with the disease and the toll it takes on caregivers. Learn more »
Twenty-one clinicians specializing in child and adolescent mental health graduated today in Monrovia, Liberia, from a training developed by The Carter Center’s Mental Health Program in partnership with the Liberia Ministry of Health, Ministry of Education, and the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection. Learn more »
The Carter Center convened its third Africa-China-United States Consultation for Peace and Development in Lome, Togo on July 27-28, 2016 Learn more »
The Carter Center and Noor Dubai Foundation have announced a new four-year partnership to accelerate efforts to eliminate blinding trachoma in Ethiopia by 2020. Ethiopia has the highest known burden of trachoma in the world, with an estimated minimum of 67 million Ethiopians at risk of disease. Learn more »
At the invitation of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, The Carter Center has launched a limited international election observation mission for Zambia’s Aug. 11 elections and national referendum on the Bill of Rights. Learn more »
President Carter was awarded the Lui Che Woo Prize for Positive Energy for all the good work that he and The Carter Center have done, which has contributed significantly to the promotion of positive life attitude and enhancement of positive energy in the world. Learn more »
We strongly support the "Justice That Works Act" that will appear on the November ballot in the state of California. Learn more »
In advance of 2017’s key national elections, The Carter Center today released an assessment of the pre-election environment that includes recommendations to help Liberia continue to strengthen its democracy. Learn more »
The Carter Center announced today the recipients of the 2016-2017 Rosalynn Carter Fellowships for Mental Health Journalism. Selected from a pool of highly competitive applicants, the 20th annual class of fellows includes eight from the United States. Two fellowships also were awarded to journalists from Colombia. Learn more »
A Carter Center pre-election assessment team will travel to Liberia next week, following up an earlier visit in April. The team will evaluate the pre-election environment and status of technical preparations in advance of legislative elections scheduled for October 2017. Learn more »
HE Dr. Maha Barakat, Director General of the Health Authority Abu Dhabi and HE Saif Saeed Ghobash, Director General of Abu Dhabi Tourism and Culture Authority, inaugurated a preview of the exhibition Countdown to Zero: Defeating Disease at Yas Mall on Monday. Learn more »
The annual auction at this year’s Carter Center Weekend, which took place June 22-26 in Annapolis, Maryland, brought in a record-setting $3,724,000 — more than twice the amount raised at any previous auction. Learn more »
The Carter Center Mental Health Program has partnered with the Qatar Foundation’s World Innovation Summit for Health (WISH) global healthcare community initiative to develop and implement a Rosalynn Carter Fellowships for Mental Health Journalism (RCJF) program in Qatar. The RCJF Qatar program will be the second mental health fellowship program for journalists in the Middle East. The first one began in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in May 2016. Learn more »
We the undersigned members of the Friends of the Inter-American Democratic Charter, committed to the promotion and defense of democratic values, have been carefully following the severe crisis in Venezuela. We reiterate our support for the Organization of American States (OAS) Secretary General’s efforts and the convening of the extraordinary meeting of the Permanent Council of the OAS on June 23, 2016, for the consideration of the report of the Secretary General on Venezuela. Learn more »
The Carter Center today issued its findings from a limited election observation mission to the Philippines May 9 general elections. Learn more »
A farm table with six chairs handcrafted at the Jimmy Carter Boyhood Farm in Plains, Georgia, last summer by former U.S. President Jimmy Carter and three other artists is among more than 150 items to be auctioned June 25 to benefit the not-for-profit Carter Center. Proceeds will support the Center's work to wage peace, fight disease, and build hope in the world's poorest and most forgotten countries. Learn more »
The 2016 Human Rights Defenders Forum will include the debuts of a musical composition and a music video, both designed to promote peace and understanding. Learn more »
The Carter Center, a not-for-profit organization advancing peace and health worldwide, has appointed 22 new members to its Board of Councilors, bringing total membership to 205. Learn more »
The Carter Center has been engaged in promoting an end to fighting and a political transition in Syria since the conflict began in 2011. The Center has facilitated a series of workshops examining governance options for the 18-month transition called for by U.N. Security Council Resolution 2254 and constitutional changes necessary to support the resolution's call for an "inclusive transitional governing body with full executive powers." Learn more »
ATLANTA — President Daniel Ortega has closed the door to international observation of national elections to be held on November 6, 2016, despite the clamor for observation by a majority of the Nicaraguan people. Learn more »
More than 60 activists, scholars and community leaders will come together June 18-21 to discuss ways to end violence in all its forms during the Carter Center's annual Human Rights Defenders Forum, "A Time for Peace: Rejecting Violence to Secure Human Rights." Learn more »
ATLANTA — The Inter-American Commission on Human Rights, an autonomous organ of the Organization of American States, announced Monday that a grave financial crisis has led to the suspension of site visits and cancellation of hearings scheduled for July and October, and the imminent loss of 40 percent of its staff. To avert this dire situation, the IACHR needs to receive funds, or at least written commitments for contributions, before June 15. Learn more »
Rosalynn and I are deeply saddened by the passing of Patricia Derian. As the senior State Department official in charge of human rights during my administration, Patt spent hundreds of hours meeting with victims and their families. She became a champion of oppressed people around the world, helping me exert pressure on dictatorships from Argentina to South Korea. Learn more »
New research about the needs of children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, will be discussed during the 21st annual Rosalynn Carter Georgia Mental Health Forum on May 20, 2016, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at The Carter Center in Atlanta. This event is open to the public, but registration is required. Learn more »
The Carter Center will receive the International Association for Impact Assessment's Institutional Award this week at the IAIA16: Resilience and Sustainability conference in recognition of its work with local civil society partners to protect human rights in the mining sector in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Learn more »
The Carter Center Mental Health Program has partnered with the Al Jalila Foundation to develop and implement a United Arab Emirates (UAE) Rosalynn Carter Fellowships for Mental Health Journalism (RCJF). This program will be the first mental health fellowship program for journalists in the Middle East. Learn more »
Dean G. Sienko, M.D., M.S., has been appointed vice president for health programs at The Carter Center, effective June 2016. Learn more »
On the occasion of the Forty-Fourth Special Session of the General Assembly of the Organization of American States (OAS), which will take place on March 22, 2013, with the objective of approving the recommendations presented by the Permanent Council for the strengthening of the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR) and the Inter-American Human Rights System, the below signatories express our recognition and support for the protection of human rights within the Inter-American system and the IACHR, as one of the main collective achievements of the countries in the hemisphere and for the valuable work that, since its creation in 1959, it has carried out and continues to carry out for the promotion, defense, and protection of human rights in the hemisphere. Learn more »
The Carter Center has launched a new web tool that shows in near real time which groups control what areas of Syria. Learn more »
Myanmar's Union Election Commission has addressed post-election complaints in a transparent manner, The Carter Center said in a statement released today, but the country's new government should address legal and structural issues to make it easier for candidates and citizens to pursue complaints in future elections and to further increase the transparency of the tabulation of results. Learn more »
ATLANTA…In a ceremony today in Khartoum, Sudan, The Carter Center joined officials from the Sudanese Federal Ministry of Health to mark an official handover of supplies and equipment to improve the country's maternal and child health. Learn more »
Liz Blake, retired senior vice president of Habitat for Humanity International, has been appointed chair of the Carter Center's Board of Councilors for 2016. The board comprises 239 members, who serve as a leadership advisory group that promotes understanding among opinion leaders and the broader community of The Carter Center and its activities. Learn more »
It has been a little more than a year since Tunisia’s Assembly of the Representatives of the People took up its work. The Carter Center commends the ARP for the important strides it has made in consolidating the rule of law — through the timely implementation of the Provisional Authority for the Control of the Constitutionality of Draft Laws — and for adopting legislation creating the Constitutional Court. Learn more »
Applications from U.S. residents are now being accepted for six one-year journalism fellowships with the Carter Center's Mental Health Program. These fellowships aim to enhance public understanding of mental health issues and reduce stigma and discrimination against people with mental illnesses through balanced and accurate reporting. The deadline for applications is April 6, 2016, and the fellowship recipients will be announced July 11, 2016, on the Center's website, www.cartercenter.org. The 2016-2017 fellowship year begins in September 2016. Learn more »
The Carter Center congratulates the people of Myanmar on the sitting of the newly elected union and state/regional legislative assemblies. The results of the historic elections on Nov. 8, 2015, delivered a strong mandate to incoming representatives to press forward with Myanmar's ongoing transition from authoritarian rule to democracy. Learn more »
Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter and The Carter Center call on the international community to continue providing desperately needed humanitarian support to Nepal and urge the country's political leaders to work quickly to resolve differences over the new constitution. Learn more »
Only 22 cases of Guinea worm disease were reported worldwide in 2015, an 83 percent reduction from the 126 cases reported in 2014, the greatest single percentage reduction in human cases in the history of the global campaign. These provisional numbers are reported by the ministries of health in remaining endemic countries and compiled by The Carter Center. When the Center began leading the international campaign to eradicate the parasitic disease in 1986, there were an estimated 3.5 million Guinea worm cases occurring annually in Africa and Asia. Learn more »
The Carter Center, the Office of the National Chief Imam of Ghana, and regional civil society organizations participating in the West Africa Human Rights Defenders Forum in Accra, Ghana, released today a declaration to advance human rights for women and girls. The forum, held Dec. 7-9, 2015, brought together more than 40 scholars, activists, and religious leaders to seek ways to combat the abuse and oppression of women and girls, and means of countering interpretations of faith-based teachings that perpetuate inequality and gender-based violence. Learn more »
My most recent MRI brain scan did not reveal any signs of the original cancer spots nor any new ones. Learn more »
On Dec. 7-9, The Carter Center will bring together more than 40 scholars, activists, and religious leaders to seek ways to combat the abuse and oppression of women and girls, and means of countering interpretations of faith-based teachings that perpetuate inequality and gender-based violence. Learn more »
President Carter has received good news from his Winship Cancer Institute doctors. Learn more »
The Carter Center congratulates the people of Myanmar, who have exercised their political rights with pride and enthusiasm. Both on election day and in the preceding months, they participated as voters, observers, political party agents, election officials, and civil society activists. Learn more »
The Carter Center and former U.S. President Jimmy Carter urge the Government of Egypt to dismiss all charges against renowned journalist and human rights defender Hossam Bahgat. "Hossam has devoted his life and work to advancing human rights for all Egyptians," said President Carter. Learn more »
Media are invited to cover the Nov. 12-13, 2015, 31st Annual Rosalynn Carter Symposium on Mental Health Policy. The Affordable Care Act (ACA) resulted in millions more people trying to access mental health and substance use services as one of the 10 essential health benefits included in all covered plans. Learn more »
The Carter Center and former U.S. President Jimmy Carter encourage all governments and stakeholders to take robust and immediate action to ensure women's participation in all efforts to advance peace and security. "Fifteen years after United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325 was adopted," said Carter, "women remain largely excluded from the peace tables and corridors of power despite clear evidence that women's participation in peace processes contributes to more comprehensive agreements that lead to sustainable peace. The time for decisive action is now." Learn more »
The Carter Center's election observation mission enters a new phase Wednesday with the arrival of more than 50 short-term observers in advance of the Nov. 8 general election. The delegation will be co-led by former President of Ireland Mary Robinson, former chairman of Nepal's Election Commission Bhojraj Pokharel, and incoming chairman of the Carter Center's Board of Trustees Jason Carter. Learn more »
On Oct. 21, The Carter Center sent a small, high-level political delegation to Guatemala City for Sunday's run-off presidential election. The presence of the delegation did not constitute an electoral observation but was an expression of the international community's high interest in Guatemala's democratic process. Learn more »
The Carter Center today released its latest statement on Myanmar's pre-election activities, making recommendations to help ensure a democratic process in the days to come. Learn more »
The Carter Center closely follows events in Syria and regularly publishes reports about conflict developments on its website. These reports are publicly available and are forwarded to all interested parties, including Syrians across political divides and governments in the west and in the region. Learn more »
On Oct. 21, The Carter Center will send a small, high-level political delegation to Guatemala City ahead of Sunday's runoff presidential election. The delegation will be led by Jorge Castañeda, a former Mexican minister of foreign affairs, and John Maisto, former U.S. ambassador to the Organization of American States — both members of the Friends of the Inter-American Democratic Charter — and by Jennie Lincoln, director of the Center's Americas Program. Learn more »
The Carter Center and former U.S. President Jimmy Carter congratulate the National Dialogue Quartet on the 2015 Nobel Prize for Peace. The peace prize is testament to the Quartet's success in steering Tunisia through deadlock and crisis to the adoption of the constitution and peaceful, credible, democratic elections. Learn more »
The International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES) and The Carter Center have entered into a memorandum of understanding to guide a partnership based on the common mission of strengthening the quality of elections and democracy. Learn more »
The Carter Center and former U.S. President Jimmy Carter congratulate the winners of the 2015 Nobel Prize for Medicine, who discovered drugs that have prevented needless suffering for countless millions of people. Learn more »
Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter and The Carter Center congratulate President Enrique Peña Nieto and the people of Mexico for eliminating onchocerciasis (river blindness) within its borders, as verified recently by the World Health Organization (WHO). Mexico is the world's third nation to receive official verification of elimination of the disease. Learn more »
The Carter Center, PAHO/WHO, and the Mectizan Donation Program of Merck & Co., Inc., known as MSD outside the United States and Canada, are part of a coalition of organizations helping countries in the Americas fight river blindness (onchocerciasis) and are calling for a final push to definitively eliminate transmission of the disabling disease from the Western Hemisphere. Learn more »
Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter met with Venezuela President Nicolás Maduro Moros in New York City today to discuss the status of the campaign to eliminate river blindness (onchocerciasis) from the Americas. Learn more »
The Carter Center welcomes the important announcement made by the Colombian government and the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) in Havana, on Sept. 23. The major breakthroughs that were reached on the issues of victims, transitional justice, and disarmament, as well as the commitment to an immediate, bilateral cease-fire and to sign a final peace agreement within six months, represent an historic progress to end the country's 51-year war. Learn more »
As The Carter Center marks 10 years as an original endorser of the Declaration of Principles for International Election Observation, its Democracy Program has launched a new project aimed at supporting those working to improve the quality of elections in the United States. Learn more »
The Carter Center election observation mission has deployed field teams to observe the electoral campaign, which officially started on Sept. 8. The first week of campaigning, as observed by the Center in three states, was peaceful, and parties report being able to conduct their campaign activities without significant difficulty. Learn more »
The Carter Center Mental Health Program today released "The Carter Center Journalism Resource Guide on Behavioral Health" to journalists, behavioral health and media experts, and guests during the three-day annual meeting of the Rosalynn Carter Fellowships for Mental Health Journalism. Approximately 1 in 5 Americans aged 18 or older experienced a mental illness last year and 20.7 million adults (8.8%) had a substance use disorder. Learn more »
The Carter Center's high-level political delegation to the Sept. 6 general elections in Guatemala found these elections to be distinct, not only in regard to Guatemala's electoral history, but also in the context of the region. Learn more »
After its first contact with electoral authorities and other Guatemalan stakeholders, the Carter Center's high-level political delegation has found an extraordinary climate of peace and civic commitment despite the complex political moment through the country has experienced. In this spirit, we encourage all citizens to vote in peace and with democratic conviction, sure that in this new stage, an election with high voter turnout will fortify Guatemala's transformation. Learn more »
At the invitation of the Guatemalan Supreme Electoral Tribunal (TSE), The Carter Center will send a small, high-level political delegation to the Sept. 6 general elections in Guatemala. Learn more »
Leaders of The Asia Foundation, The Carter Center, Democracy International, Freedom House, IREX, and World Learning met in Washington today to discuss their enhanced cooperation in programs worldwide to advance democratic elections and political transitions. Learn more »
The Carter Center's Mental Health Program in Liberia, in partnership with the Liberia Ministry of Health, has exceeded its goal of training 150 mental health clinicians by 2015, working largely in primary care clinics and hospitals across all 15 counties to provide much needed care. Learn more »
Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter reflected on his life's work during a press conference Aug. 20 in which he revealed that cancer has spread to his brain. Learn more »
At his press conference today to discuss his cancer and treatment, former U.S. President Jimmy Carter mentioned four scheduled cancer treatments. Learn more »
A number of important steps have been taken in the election process since March 2015, according to a Carter Center monitoring mission report released today. Observer accreditation procedures have been finalized, a large number of political parties have announced intentions to compete, and most parties have signed a code of conduct. Learn more »
Recent liver surgery revealed that I have cancer that now is in other parts of my body. I will be rearranging my schedule as necessary so I can undergo treatment by physicians at Emory Healthcare. A more complete public statement will be made when facts are known, possibly next week. Learn more »
Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter underwent an elective procedure at Emory University Hospital today to remove a small mass in his liver. His operation proceeded without issues, and the prognosis is excellent for a full recovery. Learn more »
Tunisia's new counterterrorism law imperils human rights and lacks the necessary safeguards against abuse, eight nongovernmental organizations said today. The law grants security forces broad and vague monitoring and surveillance powers, extends incommunicado detention from 6 to up to 15 days for terrorism suspects, and permits courts to close hearings to the public and allow witnesses to remain anonymous to the defendants. Learn more »
The Carter Center announced today the recipients of the 2015-2016 Rosalynn Carter Fellowships for Mental Health Journalism. Selected from a highly competitive and record number of applicants, the 19th annual class of fellows includes six from the United States. Two fellowships also were awarded from Colombia. (See below for a full list of fellows and their project topics.) Learn more »
Applications from U.S. residents are now being accepted for six one-year journalism fellowships with the Carter Center's Mental Health Program. These fellowships aim to enhance public understanding of mental health issues and reduce stigma and discrimination against people with mental illnesses through balanced and accurate reporting. Learn more »
The Carter Center and the World Affairs Council of Atlanta are teaming up to host two events examining the future of Cuba and Latin America. Learn more »
An auction held during this year's annual Carter Center Weekend, which took place June 24-28 in Vail, Colorado, brought in just under $1.8 million, making it the Center's most successful auction to date. Learn more »
The Carter Center urges the government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo to release the terms of the deal in which state-owned mining company Gécamines lost its interest in the potentially rich Kawama concession. In February 2015, Chabara Sprl, in which Gécamines holds a 30 percent stake, sold the Kawama permit to one of the country's largest companies, Mutanda Mining. The sale was reported in the media only this week. Learn more »
The Carter Center's mining governance program launched a revamped and improved Congo Mines website (www.congomines.org) on June 24 in Kinshasa, the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Learn more »
During the Carter Center's fourth annual Mental Health Liberia Program Review held this week in Atlanta, Georgia, former First Lady Rosalynn Carter congratulated former Liberia Minister of Health and Social Welfare Dr. Walter Gwenigale for his many contributions that have helped to increase access to care and services for those living with mental illnesses in Liberia. Learn more »
The Carter Center was informed on June 16 of the decision by the Cherokee Nation Election Commission not to extend an invitation to The Carter Center to observe the upcoming elections. While the Center regrets this news, it respects the commission's decision and will not deploy an observer team for the elections. Learn more »
The Carter Center commends the Supreme Constitutional Court's decision to reject the request from parliamentarians to impeach President Hery Rajaonarimampianina. Learn more »
Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter and businessman Sir Emeka Offor signed an agreement today for a partnership to eliminate river blindness (onchocerciasis) from seven states in Nigeria where The Carter Center works with the Federal Ministry of Health, including Sir Emeka's native state, Anambra. Learn more »
An original oil painting by former U.S. President Jimmy Carter is among more than 150 items to be auctioned June 27 to benefit the not-for-profit Carter Center. Proceeds will support the Center's work to wage peace, fight disease, and build hope in the world's poorest and most forgotten countries. Learn more »
The Carter Center today released its final preliminary statement on Guyana's May 11 general and regional elections. Learn more »
The Carter Center has released its final report summarizing its findings and highlighting the genuine and competitive nature of the 2014 legislative and presidential elections in Tunisia. The three rounds of elections were the latest steps in a transition to democracy that grew from a spark in December 2010 to the peaceful ouster of the authoritarian Ben Ali regime in January 2011. Learn more »
New research about the needs of children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, will be released during the 20th annual Rosalynn Carter Georgia Mental Health Forum on May 15, 2015, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at The Carter Center in Atlanta. This event is open to the public, but registration is required. Learn more »
Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter has urged Guyana's election commission to release election results and called on political leaders to act responsibly. Learn more »
Tunisian legislators should drop problematic provisions from a new security bill, 13 nongovernmental organizations said in a joint statement today. Learn more »
On May 11, Guyanese citizens turned out in large numbers to cast their votes in what is probably the most important election since the watershed elections of 1992. Guyanese voters waited patiently in long lines from early in the morning until into the evening. All across the country, thousands of dedicated poll workers, party agents, and officials of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) served with honesty, integrity, and professionalism. GECOM officials and poll workers are to be commended for these efforts. Learn more »
All forms of sexual exploitation are a violation of fundamental human rights and human dignity. Commercial sexual exploitation is gender-based violence and a public health crisis made possible by unethical and ungrounded male entitlement, which disproportionately affects the most vulnerable among us. Learn more »
President Carter was not feeling well and has departed Guyana to return to Atlanta today. The Carter Center election observation mission in Guyana is continuing its work and will keep him informed of developments. Learn more »
Fear of stigma and discrimination remains one of the biggest factors in preventing people from seeking treatment for mental illnesses. This problem is especially true for older children and young adults struggling with mental health issues who sense additional pressure to "fit in" with their peer group. Learn more »
Guyana's electoral preparations appear to be on track in most of the country, according to early Carter Center observer reports, which also expressed deep concern about divisive campaign rhetoric. Learn more »
Guyana's electoral preparations appear to be on track in most of the country, according to early Carter Center observer reports, which also expressed deep concern about divisive campaign rhetoric. Learn more »
In the wake of the devastating earthquake and ongoing rescue and recovery operations in Nepal, former U.S. President Jimmy Carter calls on the international community to redouble efforts to support Nepal and to develop clear plans for long-term assistance and rebuilding. Learn more »
After two years of deliberation and negotiation, Tunisia adopted its new constitution in January 2014. Today, The Carter Center released its comprehensive report on the constitution and the deliberative process that culminated in its adoption, as well as recommendations for next steps in its implementation. Learn more »
On May 11 and 12, The Carter Center will join with Rotarians Against Child Slavery to convene a summit of advocates, nongovernmental organizations, and senior government officials from nine countries to coordinate action to end the sexual exploitation of women and children. Learn more »
The Carter Center has launched an international election observation mission for Guyana's May 11 elections at the invitation of the government of Guyana. Learn more »
The Carter Center today announced plans for a major forum May 6 and 7 on China's wide-ranging domestic and international reforms and their implications for U.S.-China relations. Learn more »
Jordan Ryan has been named vice president for peace programs at The Carter Center, effective June 1, 2015. Ryan served 24 years with the United Nations in developing countries and post-crisis settings. Most recently, he was assistant administrator of United Nations Development Programme and director of the UNDP Bureau for Crisis Prevention and Recovery, serving at the assistant secretary-general level. Learn more »
Myanmar's Union Election Commission is making efforts to improve the transparency and integrity of the electoral process in advance of the 2015 general elections, according to a Carter Center monitoring mission report released today. However, a number of key challenges need to be addressed in order to ensure that the upcoming elections earn the confidence of voters, political parties, and civil society organizations. Learn more »
International Women's Day this year highlights the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, a roadmap for women's rights and equality that was signed by Guatemala and 188 other governments 20 years ago. The declaration underscores the importance of access to information for women in achieving such goals as improved health and economic empowerment through entrepreneurship. Learn more »
The Carter Center's Mental Health Program in Liberia, in partnership with the Liberia Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, congratulates the newest class of 21 clinicians who have joined the effort to continue improving access to mental health services in Liberia. With the addition of these graduates, 144 mental health clinicians are now trained, working largely in primary care clinics and hospitals across all 15 counties to provide much needed care. Learn more »
On March 19, The Carter Presidential Library will debut a new exhibit of photos by acclaimed photographer Jean Mohr called "War from the Victims' Perspective." Learn more »
Consortium Aims to Eliminate Malaria on Hispaniola by 2020 Starting With $29.9 Million Grant to CDC Foundation Learn more »
The Liberian Government and the World Bank Group in partnership with the Government of Japan, today launched a new $3 million project to address the psychological effects of Liberia's Ebola crisis and to promote psychosocial health in the country. The ceremony was held at the World Bank Liberia Office. Learn more »
In the run-up to Lesotho's national elections on Feb. 28, The Carter Center encourages all political parties and leaders to ensure a peaceful electoral process and respect for the democratic process. Learn more »
GUATEMALA CITY — Guatemalan women face deep inequities in exercising their fundamental right of access to information, according to a new study from The Carter Center's Global Access to Information Initiative. Learn more »
ATLANTA — Leading members of the election and human rights communities will come together today at The Carter Center for the first major meeting between the two groups. Co-chaired by former U.S. President Jimmy Carter and U.N. Assistant Secretary General Ivan Šimonović, the Human Rights and Election Standards Conference will provide participants an opportunity to reflect on areas of common interest between the two communities. Participants will also discuss potential future cooperation and will advance solutions to technical and political challenges to electoral reform at the national, regional, and international levels. Learn more »
While efforts to ensure transparency in Congo's lucrative mining sector have made some progress in recent years, much more is needed in order to ensure that key information is made available to the public, according to a new report published by three Congolese NGO networks in partnership with the Carter Center. Learn more »
On Feb. 9-10, more than 60 scholars, activists, and religious leaders from 20 countries will participate in The Carter Center's Human Rights Defenders Forum. "Beyond Violence: Women Leading for Peaceful Societies" will focus on advancing the rights of women and girls, including the right to peace. Learn more »
I offer my condolences and prayers to the Saud family on the death of King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia. He was a strong leader with great wisdom and vision for the Royal Kingdom, and I will miss his friendship. Learn more »
ATLANTA...Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter and The Carter Center congratulate Ghana on being certified by the World Health Organization this week as having eliminated Guinea worm (Dracunculus medinensis), a water-borne parasitic disease poised to be the second human disease in history to be eradicated. Learn more »
The challenges of eradicating devastating diseases are enormous, but successful strategies can bring about enormous social and economic benefits. Opening at the American Museum of Natural History on January 13, Countdown to Zero: Defeating Disease explores the factors that determine if a disease is eradicable — meaning that it can be wiped out completely — as well as the scientific and social innovations that are ridding the world of ancient afflictions. Learn more »
The Carter Center announced today that 126 Guinea worm cases were reported worldwide in 2014. These provisional numbers, reported by ministries of health in the remaining four endemic nations and compiled by the Center, show that cases of the debilitating disease were reduced by 15 percent in 2014 compared to 148 cases in 2013. When the Center began leading the first international campaign to eradicate a parasitic disease in 1986, there were an estimated 3.5 million Guinea worm cases occurring annually in Africa and Asia. Learn more »
Early Carter Center observer reports indicate that Tunisia has successfully completed its first democratic election cycle under the new constitution with Dec. 21's final round of the presidential election. Learn more »
The Carter Center notes with concern the conviction of Republic of Korea incumbent lawmaker, Lee Seok-ki, a member of the National Assembly, by the Seoul High Court on a charge of insurrection conspiracy based on taped remarks he made to his political followers and for which he has been sentenced to nine years in prison. Learn more »
I am delighted with the wise and courageous decision of President Obama to improve relations with Cuba, and congratulate Alan Gross and his family on his freedom. Learn more »
The Carter Center has launched an international election observation mission for Tunisia's Dec. 21 presidential runoff, its third such effort in 2014. Learn more »
Tunisian citizens voted in a genuine and competitive election on Nov. 23, the country's first presidential elections under the new constitution. This presidential election further consolidates Tunisia's democratic transition following a long and sometimes contentious transition period. Learn more »
In recent weeks, as the Jan. 22 deadline to promulgate a new constitution approaches, Nepal's constitution-making process has become increasingly polarized. The Carter Center urges all parties to recommit to the spirit of consensus upon which the peace process and constituent assembly are founded and to find broadly acceptable compromises to bring constitution-making to a successful close. Learn more »
Under the accreditation of the Instance Supérieure Indépendante pour les Élections (ISIE) of Tunisia, The Carter Center has launched an international election observation mission for Tunisia's presidential election on Nov. 23. Learn more »
Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter and Mexican businessman Carlos Slim announced today a partnership to assist the regional initiativ
