Why is it important tu support democracy?
Democracy is not only a form of governance nor is it just a way of arranging the relationship between society and institutions. Democracy is at the core of the idea of human development and human dignity. A responsive democracy is crucial to the way a society and its individuals can exercise their human rights and fundamental freedoms. As stated in the 1948 Universal Declaration of Human rights, democracy is a universal value since democratic systems open the possibility for people to shape their lives according to their own aspirations and opportunities and ensure that they can develop their own political, economic, social and cultural systems.
Moreover, whereas development co-operation and humanitarian assistance remain essential in a world that has not been able to put an end to the most excruciating forms of poverty, deprivation and inequality, sustainable and more equitable economic development can only take place where the principles of good democratic governance, transparency and accountability prevail, where citizens can take an active part in shaping the development of their communities and institutions are responsible for delivering and extending access to basic public goods.
That´s why supporting democracy is and should be an important element of the agenda of the international community.