Relationship between democracy and sustainability : a disengaged process

The paper examines the issue at three levels. The first focuses on the sustainability of democracy projects or programs and establishes specific requirements for such, which are found to include: tailoring the project to fit explicit local needs; establishing effective links between local and national political institutions; taking advantage of the potential multiplier effects of democracy-related projects in other sectors; and instilling the norm of democracy among the project population. Successful democracy projects can be the "training grounds" for democracy as a whole. Second, democracy and democracy-related projects are examined not just as ends in themselves, but also as a means for achieving broader development goals. Arguments are presented that democracy is linked directly to increased economic development in the long term, and that indirectly, democracy can provide the means for mobilizing citizens and creating institutional linkages between the political system and a culture of participation and social values of equity. By establishing such linkages, democracy becomes more viable. Lastly, the paper examines the underpinnings of democracy itself. According to the paper, to be sustainable democracy must be supported by effective political institutions, a liberal philosophy, free markets, an educational system which socializes democratic norms, and a viable civil society. Perhaps most importantly, an atmosphere of security -- both personal and national -- appears to be necessary for the long-term success of democracy. Includes references, and an overview of the series. (Author abstract, modified)