Democracy and good governance
Everyone must be allowed to take part in the fight against poverty and their voices must be heard and respected. This can only be achieved in a democracy.
Democracy must be based on the particular conditions of each society, but also on the shared values of the equal dignity and rights of all human beings. It requires a well-functioning judicial system based on the principles of the rule of law.
A democracy presupposes free elections, functioning political parties, independent media and active NGOs that can operate freely. People in positions of power should be able to be held politically accountable for their actions. Education and access to information are preconditions for this. Features of a democratic culture include gender equality as well as respect and tolerance for all individuals and groups. A good democracy also requires the division of power between the institutions of democracy.
Governance and peaceful conflict resolution
Good governance and good public administration are essential aspects of democracy. The ability to distribute society´s resources, curb the abuse of power and corruption and guarantee equality of all persons before the law is fundamental to a well-functioning society.
In a democracy, differences and conflicts are dealt with peacefully. A society must develop a range of mechanisms for dealing with conflicts that may arise between different stakeholders. Sweden´s extensive experience of this - for example from the labour market field - will be put to use in global development policy. Sweden is pressing for further efforts to be made in global development policy to establish principles and procedures for demanding accountability, popular participation at different levels, openness and transparency of governance as well as power-sharing.
