Ms. Hila Asanuma Returns from International Visitor Leadership Program with Insights on Judicial Independence and Democratic Governance

Koror, Palau – February 11, 2026 -Ms. Hila Asanuma, Assistant Attorney General, completed the U.S. Department of State’s International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) on Rule of Law and the U.S. Judicial System, a professional exchange program that brings emerging leaders from around the world to the United States to experience American society and institutions firsthand.

During her three-week-long program, Hila examined the U.S. commitment to transparency, ethics, and judicial independence in a democracy. The program featured meetings and site visits highlighting the judiciary’s role

in preserving democratic practices, including due process, trial by jury, the right to representation and a fair trial, and governmental accountability.

Hila observed federal and state judicial  systems under the U.S. model of federalism, attending trials and court proceedings while assessing new technologies in court administration. In Utah, she met with a U.S. District Court Judge and an Assistant Attorney General, gaining valuable insights into the American justice  system.

“The experience was eye-opening,” Hila said. “I was able to observe rehabilitation and development programs that could be applied to our local judicial  system. Beyond the professional training, I expanded my network and formed friendships that I maintain even a year later.” The IVLP, the U.S. Department of State’s premier professional exchange program, has connected more than 225,000 emerging leaders from over 200 countries since 1940. Participants return home with a deeper understanding of American society and lasting professional relationships