Conceptual Approach democratic governance. Particularly in societies where political decisions are taken in a centralized and hierarchical manner, the OSCE helps to promote local ownership of and participation in decision-making processes. This not only allows central governments to include local perspectives in their discussions, but also encourages local communities and municipalities to become more vocal. To this end, all efforts to build sustainable peace should pay specific attention to the inclusion of under-represented and vulnerable groups, such as ethnic and social minorities, youth, and women. The establishment of ombudsperson institutions is one concrete example of how the engagement of citizens in transformation and reform processes has helped to ensure that the interests of society are properly reflected. Through ombudsperson institutions, citizens can report perceived or alleged violations of human rights. The creation of election commissions that are based on the specific needs and composition of societies has also helped to ensure that electorates feel their interests are better represented. Building sustainable peace also includes support for mechanisms that allow for confidence- and relationship-building, specifically in societies that experience polarization and division. Accordingly, the OSCE’s contribution to building sustainable peace and supporting transitions aims to facilitate reconciliation and dealing with the past. Like any other peacebuilding activity, such processes must be supported with due consideration for the specific context. This means they must be tailored to the specific situation 17