Democratization T he strengthening of democratic institutions and processes is vital to the support of human dimension commitments and a key objective in most, if not all, of ODIHR’s activities. ODIHR’s democratization assistance focuses on longer-term programmes, aimed at generating results at the policy-level, rather than short-term projects. This work is based on an identification methodology that includes needs assessments before activities are undertaken to ensure that ODIHR’s financial, human and time resources are used in the most effective way possible. Recognizing that the OSCE’s strength is in its unique field presence, ODIHR provides expertise to enable field operations to respond effectively to requests from participating States and bolster their work in support of the Organization’s human dimension commitments. This often involves work in partnership with a broad range of state institutions and structures, including national parliaments, justice and interior ministries, central elections commissions and national human rights institutions. Main Issues kk Rule of law and legal reform: The rule of law and democracy are mutually reinforcing. The rule of law is central to democratic development, underpinning the proper functioning of democratic institutions and procedures, and free and fair elections in particular. Democracy, meanwhile, bolsters the rule of law by ensuring that laws are perceived as legitimate, and not as instruments of control or oppression. The development and safeguarding of the rule of law requires not only compliance with existing legislation, but also the fostering and maintenance of institutions responsible for and able to ensure democratic law-making, the protection of human rights, and proper administration of justice. Bearing the greatest responsibility for promoting compliance with and equality before the law, governments should lead by example. Where they don’t, this undermines public trust in the government, law and justice. kk Democratic governance and participation in public affairs: Effective institutions and laws are necessary, but not sufficient, for the development of true, functioning democracies. For democracy to be effective, the norms, rules and traditions of any society have to be integrated into a system aimed at achieving a common good through deliberation and consideration. Civil society, involving the voluntary participation of citizens in community life, either directly or through organizations or institutions, is vital to this process. The extent to which this participation is transparent and effective is a measure of the quality of democratic governance within a country. kk Gender equality and women’s participation in democratic processes: Gender equality in the policymaking processes of any country is central to ensuring broad women’s participation in governing structures and political and public life in general. In many instances, however, a lack of awareness on the part of the general public and the state prevents improvements in this area. Traditional patriarchal attitudes and behaviour in some OSCE participating States serve as a primary barrier to the promotion of gender equality, with the general public often not even considering these practices discriminatory. This ultimately limits women’s participation in, and contribution to, democratization processes. Annual Report 2008 19