Apart from development assistance, foreign assistance includes support for the process of building democracy and a civil society. Developed countries become involved in the promotion of the principles of good governance and the rule of law, and in the monitoring and assessment of the observance of human rights and fundamental civil liberties. The strengthening of independence of civil society institutions is also of utmost importance.

The activity of developed countries in the field of supporting democracy arises from the belief that democracy better meets the social, cultural and economic needs of human beings and creates favourable conditions for economic progress. The expansion of democracy does not serve the purpose of imposing one’s own ideas or interests but of protecting people against the abuse of power and giving citizens the right to make independent decisions regarding their own fate.

Democracy is characterised by free elections, the rule of law, openness of public life and the civil society; wherein the fundamental civil liberties are protected and where there is freedom of association and opinion.

Every year, the Freedom House Foundation prepares a report on the state of democracy and freedom in all the countries throughout the world (see the 2005 report). The report is a result of the observation of changes in respecting and protecting political rights and civil liberties by state authorities.

A major role in the protection of democracy is that of international and regional organisations such as the European Union, the Council of Europe, OSCE, and the UNO.

Poland’s commitment to the promotion of democracy and support for the civil society is focused on:

• promoting the rules of good governance,
• monitoring and assessing the observance of human rights and fundamental civil liberties,
• strengthening the independence of civil society institutions,
• supporting free and independent media,
• popularising knowledge and awareness of active citizenship.

Poland, as a member of the Council of Europe, is actively involved in activities carried out for the benefit of building/supporting/promoting??? democracy. The European Union also requires the observance of democratic rules and respect for fundamental freedoms and rights from its members.

After the meeting held in Copenhagen in June 1990, the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe declared that ”democracy and the rule of law” were necessary for “guaranteeing respect for all the human rights and fundamental freedoms”.

Poland continues its activities within the framework of the Community of Democracies established at an international conference held in Warsaw in 2000 (see: the Warsaw Declaration).