So much so that the respect vested, for example, in freedom of speech and freedom of association contributes, in the final analysis, to advancing a culture of tolerance, which is an underestimated and characteristic feature of a democratic society. Using a framework based on international human rights instruments, the Centre undertakes democratic development studies and workshops to identify, in collaboration with its partners, national priorities for democratic development. The methodology used in the studies is based on the linkage between human rights and democracy. In addition, this methodology takes into account political institutions. The Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination Against Women is included as a key component.
Gender equality is a fundamental democratic value.
The methodology is both universal and flexible and therefore applicable to assessing democratic development in any country be it Sweden, South Africa or anywhere else. We hope that the results will be useful to all those hoping to effect democratic change, be they members of Parliament or civil society groups, non-governmental organizations, or international actors. The studies and workshops also guide the Centre's long-term democratic development programmes and are used to provide a focus for democratic development done by other agencies with more substantial financial resources.