Democratisation Processes in Developing Countries and Options for Democratisation Assistance by Political Foundations

Since the end of the 1980's, more and more donors have begun to promote democratisation processes by providing active support through so-called "positive measures." Positive measures can only be successful, however, if they are part of coherent and credible policies, i.e. if donors adhere to their principles even if their security and economic interests are at stake. This is a great challenge in view of the growing trend to instrumentalise development cooperation for economic goals. This paper discusses lessons learned from experience and it presents options and recommendations for future democratisation assistance for developing countries. [author]