Democratization In the Commemorative Declaration adopted at the 2010 OSCE Summit in Astana, OSCE participating States reaffirmed their commitment to democracy that applies equally to all. By assisting states in the building and consolidation of democratic institutions, ODIHR aims to help governments become more responsive, responsible and representative. The Office’s democratization work is aimed, therefore, at assisting participating States in meeting their OSCE commitments in areas such as democratic governance and lawmaking, the development of pluralistic party systems and political party regulation, enhancing the rule of law, strengthening parliaments, ensuring freedom of movement and migrant integration, and promoting gender equality and women’s political participation. In most human dimension-related areas, ODIHR also provides direct support to participating States’ legal reform efforts by reviewing draft and existing legislation for its compliance with human rights standards and OSCE commitments. ODIHR’s work focuses on providing policy advice and assistance in building the capacities of democratic institutions in all three branches of government, and facilitating the inclusion of civil society actors in decision-making processes. The recommendations provided to participating States by election observation missions form the basis for much of this work. In line with its mandate, ODIHR provides technical expertise to various actors in the process of democratization, either directly or with the support of OSCE field operations. The Office’s democratization programme works in partnership with civil society organizations, encouraging them to contribute actively to democratization activities based on principles of good governance and the rule of law. The programme also works to strengthen state institutions, for the benefit of men and women equally, with a focus on political parties, migrants and other groups, and to increase democratic participation. MAIN ISSUES Rule of Law and Legal Reform In some participating States, justice systems have been — and continue to be — in need of assistance in developing laws and systems meeting relevant international standards and OSCE commitments. ODIHR’s rule of law activities include providing support to independent judiciaries, highlighting reforms that strengthen fair trial guarantees, promoting robust and independent legal professions and reinforcing the effective functioning of administrative justice systems. In ensuring the quality and effectiveness of legislation related to the human dimension in the OSCE region, ODIHR provides support to states by reviewing and assessing compliance of relevant draft and existing legislation with international standards, making recommendations for improvement and sharing good practices. ODIHR also provides, upon request, comprehensive assessments of the legislative processes in participating States to improve democratic lawmaking. 20 ODIHR Annual Report 2012