#222 Spreading Democracy

As every EAW knows, democracy is the best form of government ever. And it only exists in the United States, Canada, and England. And some parts of the EU. (And possibly India and Costa Rica). A critical role of EAWs is helping spread democracy to the rest of the world, which doesn’t have it.

This can be done in many ways. But the best results come when it is done via Democracy and Governance funding from countries that have true democracies (capitalist democracies, not social ones).

Democratic governance and human rights are critical components of sustainable development and lasting peace. Countries that have ineffective government institutions, rampant corruption and weak rule of law have a 30-to-45 percent higher risk of civil war and higher risk of extreme criminal violence than other developing countries.

There is so much that less developed countries can learn from long-standing democracies about the role of strong institutions for ensuring broad civic participation, transparency and accountability from elected officials, and smooth transitions of power. For example, protecting and promoting human rights, ensuring the possibility for free and fair elections, combating disinformation, strengthening digital safety for new and traditional media, and incorporating rule of law and justice, can be built right into human rights programming for surefire results.

With a few exceptions, EAWs are proud of their democracies and grateful that following their years of self-sacrifice and building up of their savings, they can return to their home countries (or one of the lesser democracies where the weather is better) to enjoy their waning years somewhere just, peaceful, and stable where all citizens can fulfill their potential. 

Right up there with capacity building and stamping out corruption, spreading the cherished values of democracy is one of the best ways that EAWs can help the world become a better place.