There is a need for dialogue and discourse between the governing and opposition parties. Essential to any successful working of democracy within the state is that political parties should practice internal democracy, including the full participation of women. Political parties should receive funding from the state on a basis to be agreed. Political parties should see it as their duty to enhance national integration and cohesion and not exploit ethnic, racial, religious or other divisive tendencies. Equitable access for all political groups and shades of opinion to the media is essential for democracy.
Sustainable democracy requires a viable and economically empowered civil society.
Governments and political parties should encourage the development of organs of civil society. The Commonwealth should continue its work in support of democracy and good governance in all member countries, including through the good offices of the Secretary-General. The Commonwealth should explore the possibility of developing a model Code of Conduct for political parties, including in respect of the electoral process. The Commonwealth should enhance its support for capacity-building for institutions critical for democratisation in member countries. The Commonwealth should explore the possibility of developing the capacity to monitor and observe the implementation of the above measures.