In its final week, the 1999 UN Commission on Human Rights adopted a resolution on the right to democracy. The international community has affirmed for the first time that democracy fosters respect for human rights and humanitarian standards. The Commission on Human Rights is not alone in recognizing the many benefits of democracy. Per Ahlmark, former Deputy Prime Minister of Sweden, has cited studies showing that no two democracies have fought one another in war.
Democracy is the foundation for accountable and transparent government.
It helps to safeguard fundamental human rights, fight poverty, and maintain peace. Advancing democracy should be integral to all of the UN's agencies and programs. Already some agencies have made this a priority. For example, the UN Conference on Trade and Development is forging partnerships between least developed countries and private industry in democratic, industrialized nations. In addition to access to technology and the global economy, these developing states are exposed to business practices that prize accountability and shun corruption.