Professional and Cultural Exchange Programs - Citizen Exchanges

As authorized by the Fulbright-Hays Act, the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) seeks to increase mutual understanding between the people of the United States and the people of other countries by means of educational and cultural exchange programs, including the exchange of scholars, researchers, professionals, students, and educators. ECA programs foster engagement and encourage dialogue with citizens around the world. Educational and cultural engagement is premised on the knowledge that mutual understanding, the development of future leaders, and the benefits of education programs influence societies and affect official decision-making almost everywhere in the world today. Citizen Exchange programs advance U.S. foreign policy by promoting mutual understanding between Americans and people worldwide. The programs create inclusive networks, strengthen civil society, and build a more stable and prosperous world. Citizen Exchanges programs engage participants across critical sectors: arts and culture, communication and media, economics and business, justice and democratic governance, education, science and technology, sports and health, and youth development. These programs expose foreign participants to American values—freedom, representative government, rule of law, economic choice, and individual dignity—while building international knowledge among Americans. The Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs delivers these programs through grants and cooperative agreements with American nonprofit organizations, including community groups, professional associations, and universities. The programs bring foreign artists, athletes, professionals, technical experts, and youth to the United States while sending American counterparts abroad. Citizen Exchanges strengthen the American economy by opening foreign markets to U.S. businesses and professionals, while benefiting both American participants and their host communities.