Governance and Democracy Processes

The Governance and Democratic Processes project seeks to increase understanding of democratic processes in a select number of countries. The methodology for the Governance project was based on that of the Fragile States project, using baseline data and event monitoring. In addition, researchers employ questionnaire based surveys that solicit the input of country experts, thus allowing the juxtaposition of quantitative and qualitative assessment. The Governance and Democratic Processes country reports provide detailed analysis of governance related processes in a particular state. The indicators used to gather structural data are divided into six clusters: Rule of Law, Human Rights, Government Transparency and Accountability; Government and Market Efficiency; Democratic Participation; and Political Stability and Violence. Events monitoring information is collected using a variety of domestic and international sources. Where possible, such quantitative sources are complemented by in-country consultations with subject and country experts.

Recent Outreach

• Presentation at CIDA ­ Presentation of research methodology to Canada Corps, Democracy Council
• CIGI ’06 - Conference on International Governance Innovation - presentation of research
• Presentation to CIDA Asia Branch ­ Presentation of governance research project, identification of case study countries
• Presentation to CIDA Governance Core Group ­ Presentation of governance research project, identification of case study countries
• Presentation to Americas Branch - Presentation of governance research project, identification of case study countries
• Meeting with Swisspeace - presentation of research, discussion of potential collaboration
• Democracy Processes for the Andean Region, Lima Peru
• Small Developing States research, Malta
• Presentation of Handbook, IDRC, Ottawa