Democracy News

EU Revisits and Recognizes Importance of Democracy Promotion and the Community of Democracies
November 17, 2009
By: Matt Levy

On November 17, 2009, the Council of the European Union issued a report, entitled, “Council Conclusions on Democracy Support in the EU’s External Relations.” In it, they adopted conclusions acknowledging the importance of democracy support, and the need to improve existing policy to promote greater cohesion, effectiveness and visibility in regards to its democracy promotion agenda. Additionally, the Council recommended that EU reports on development, human rights and other issues should include a separate section on democracy support, where possible.

However, the Council of the European Union clarified that these conclusions would not signify nor introduce new conditionality clauses regarding EU development aid, but would instead begin a reevaluation process in order to improve how existing EU policies are implemented. The Council of the EU also asserted the need to increase consistency and coordination of the many dialogues it has pertaining to democracy building with partner countries, while looking for additional, innovative ways to involve civil society and other non-governmental players.

Finally, the EU Council declared the need to intensify the EU’s efforts to promote democracy within international organizations, highlighting the need to increase cooperation within the Community of Democracies, among others.

To read the full report, please click here.