Democracy is one of the universal core values and principles of the United Nations. Respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms and the principle of holding periodic and genuine elections by universal suffrage are essential elements of democracy.

It is generally acknowledged that development is impossible in the absence of true democracy, respect for human rights, peace and good governance. Good governance and human rights are mutually reinforcing. In turn, ‘good governance and good public administration are essential aspects of democracy and for achieving democracy a freely functioning, well organized, vibrant and responsible civil society is indispensable.