DCP & FRIDE Release New Publication: Strategies for Democratic Change: Assessing the Global Response
28 June 2006

The Democracy Coalition Project (DCP) and Fundación para las Relaciones Internacionales y el Diálogo Exterior (FRIDE) recently published a book that investigates how the world has reacted to threats to democracy in seven countries. The book, Strategies for Democratic Change: Assessing the Global Response, specifically documents how UN member states are promoting democracy in Burma, Togo, Turkey, Ukraine, Venezuela, Yemen, and Zimbabwe. In addition, DCP and FRIDE offer some advice on how the EU, the US, and other states can better advance democracy worldwide.

In addition to the seven country studies, the editors offer general conclusions and recommendations. Some of these key points include: refraining from using sanctions, listening to domestic reformers promoting democracy, linking development aid to accountability and transparency, engaging regional organizations or coalitions that promote democracy, and addressing post-transition challenges.

At a policy forum to EU policymakers, Co-editor Ted Piccone expressed his optimism towards the book’s findings. He explained, “We found that, while in nearly every case there are positive signs of international support for democratic reformers, much greater political will and coordination among democratic governments is necessary to make a difference.” The study reveals that leaders, like Zimbabwe’s Robert Mugabe and the military junta in Burma, have avoided external efforts for peaceful political change, while in other countries like Turkey and Ukraine, international involvement has played an influential role.

You can click here for a preview of the book.