Netherlands Institute for Multiparty Democracy

NIMD, as a Dutch organisation that works with political actors in 9 African countries, is also given a slot in the teaching programme to specifically present and discuss issues around democracy and democracy support with the attending military participant.

Two Programme Managers of NIMD gave a brief outline of the work of NIMD, the Dutch political system, and then facilitated a discussion on the how and why of democracy. The key message was that a perfect democracy does not exist, and that there is a difference between the institutions that are seen as essential for a democracy to properly function (parliament, elections, parties, constitution, civil society), and the democratic ideals (representation, equality, inclusivity, freedom). Moreover, democratic practice often differs from democratic rules.

The session concluded with presentations by the different participants of their quick analysis of the main democratic challenges in their respective countries. It also looked at possible roles of the armed forces in overcoming these problems. The conclusion was that by remaining impartial and force for stability, the army can indeed play an important role in strengthening democracy.