This is a policy choice with long-term implications. Sweden strongly supports this shift towards identifying and taking early measures. We are prepared to work with other countries to support the Secretary-General in the development of a comprehensive conflict prevention strategy. Such a mechanism could be utilized at an early stage in an emerging crisis situation, without undue delays. Another part of a UN strategy should be to explore and develop the link between democracy and prevention of violent conflict.
Democracy offers peaceful ways of handling conflicts and different interests.
Democratization is a process in which the holding of elections only should be the first step in a long-term international commitment. Establishing peace and democracy takes a lot more than free and fair elections. The sanctions instrument needs to be refined to become truly effective. By now, we have ample evidence that sweeping economic sanctions frequently do more harm than good. The guiding principle should be to exert the strongest possible pressure on the decision-makers, while no effort should be spared to avoid negative effects on civilians.