U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Democracy, Human Rights and Labor to visit Armenia

As part of the U.S. Embassy’s recognition of International Human Rights Day, Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Democracy, Human Rights and Labor Thomas O. Melia will discuss human rights issues and democratization in Armenia with senior officials of the Armenian Government, political leaders, and civil society representatives during a visit to Armenia on December 13-15.

Human Rights Day symbolizes the continuation of the fight to make universal human rights a reality for all people – regardless of race, gender, nationality, sexual orientation, disability, ethnicity, or religion.  Human rights protect aspects of human dignity that all people, regardless of cultural differences, deserve: freedom to pursue happiness and fulfillment, to speak openly, to come together with others and organize peacefully, to believe and worship as they see fit, and to participate fully in the public life of society with confidence in the rule of law.

The Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights and Labor leads U.S. efforts to promote democracy, protect human rights and international religious freedom, and advance labor rights globally.  Deputy Assistant Secretary Melia is the State Department official directly responsible for democracy and human rights in Europe and Central Asia.