Carnegie Endowment for International Peace
Geopolitical concerns have made democracy promotion central to Japan’s foreign policy rhetoric, but they have also ensured that this support will be limited in practice.
Central and Eastern Europe democracies are eager to share lessons from their transitions with democratic aspirants in the Middle East. But to translate good intentions into real impact, CEE states must distinguish themselves from other aid providers.
Japan’s low profile in the field of international democracy assistance stems from its preference for funding state institutions over civil society.
A more multipolar world could benefit democracy, but rising democracies are hesitant to engage in international democracy support. Encouraging these countries to do more to support democracy abroad should be a priority, but it will not be easy.
Rising democracies from the developing world have the potential to assist and revitalize international democracy support. Encouraging these countries to do more to support democracy abroad should be a priority, but it will not be easy.
Democratic actors in Central and Eastern Europe bring unique experiences and legitimacy to international democracy support and their democracy promotion efforts have the potential to make a significant contribution.