About us
Fighting Dictators, Reawakening Democracy’s Survival Instinct
RDI envisions a world where the forces of freedom are united and authoritarianism is in retreat.
Our mission
Our values & mission
When we say that we want to renew democracy, we’re talking about a lot more than ensuring free and fair elections. We’re looking to reawaken the self-preservation instinct of free societies.
What we stand for
- Freedom of the press, speech, conscience, religion, and assembly.
- Integrity and fairness of elections.
- Equal justice, due process, and an independent judiciary.
- Equality of opportunity, but not necessarily of outcome.
- A competitive marketplace free from corruption.
- Free flow of goods, services, capital, and ideas.
- A rational and humane immigration policy.
- A government accountable to its citizens.
- Civil discussion of controversial political issues.
- Safeguarding the rights of all individuals.
Our Pillars
As an advocacy organization, we align insightful analysis with direct action in frontline democracies and we leverage unique advocacy networks and a motivated community to influence national discourse and mobilize key stakeholders. This approach is reflected in our four pillars:
education
Advocacy
Action
Community Building
Message
A Message From Our Chairman
As a lifelong chess player, planning the next move is second nature to me. But unlike chess, fighting for democracy is not a black-and-white struggle. The Free World is at greater risk than at any point since the end of the Cold War. This is what makes RDI’s work indispensable. We have taken the fight directly to dictators and their apologists: on Capitol Hill, with material aid to Ukraine, and in the all-important information space. We are celebrating our wins, but we are not complacent. I invite you to support RDI as the fight for freedom ramps up.
Milestones
Key Milestones in RDI’s Journey
Explore the significant milestones that have shaped RDI’s mission. Each event represents a step forward in our commitment to democracy.
2018
Fight for Liberty, RDI’s foundational text, is published
Even more relevant today than it was in 2018, Fight for Liberty, is RDI’s foundational text, a forceful response to the worldwide crisis of liberal democracy and a cri de coeur in defense of the Free World.
2019
Reawakening the Spirit of Democracy
Our first conference, held in partnership with Johns Hopkins University, was a meeting of the minds held in defense of democracy and against a rising tide of illiberalism around the world.
2021
RDI and CNN partner to launch Voices of Freedom
A first of its kind gathering of dissidents from around the world calling on Americans to defend their own democracy and stand up to dictators around the world.
2023
RDI leads a delegation of thought leaders to Ukraine
RDI brought key American journalists, stakeholders, and other prominent individuals to frontline regions in Ukraine to keep attention focused where it belongs: on those individuals bravely risking their lives to defend their country and all of Europe.
2023
RDI hosts its first-annual Heroes of Democracy Gala
Our first-annual gala celebrating the leaders and pioneers who have taken personal risks in defense of freedom. Since then, we have honored individuals including Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba, Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas, Rep. Adam Kinzinger, and Senator John Fetterman.
2024
RDI Raises over $13M to Support Ukraine
RDI has delivered 38,783 meals Ready-to-Eat (MREs), 6,042 sleeping bags for residents, first responders, and others on the frontlines, 8 water filtration units, 600 spinal block and surgery sets, and other critical supplies to ensure that Ukrainians can stay on their own land in the face of Russian aggression.
2025
RDI launches The Next Move, reaching 60,000 subscribers in the first year
2026
RDI leads its second delegation to Ukraine, visiting Kyiv and the frontline city of Kharkiv
MAKE A DIFFERENCE TODAY
Empower dissidents defending freedom. Educate the next generation on the value of liberal democracy. Bring material aid to frontline democracies.