How Democracy Is Working?

“A great democracy must be progressive or it will soon cease to be a great democracy”

                                                                                 Theodore Roosevelt

I support the idea that in a democracy there is a gradual overcoming of the usual stereotypes about politics, government, democracy, state, place and role of a human being in social - political life. Therefore, a society should be focused on human rights' protection, recognition of people as a source of power, and state’s withdrawal from the state of “chaos” into the phase of organization and subsequent stabilization.

Over 20 young  leaders and civil society activists from the United States and Europe participate in 2012 HIA Poland Fellowship. During the first day of interactive  training and discussions in Sarajevo we explored the importance of taking action to improve the situation of  human and  minority rights wherever they are violated. Based on the principles of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Constitutions of democratic countries stipulate the rights of man and citizen as the task to which compliance the society and the state must seek. Moreover, the premise appears to guarantee the rights of every citizen to be elected and to participate in the government. Talks with young professionals – HIA Poland Fellows confirmed my standpoint that democratic countries should further promote respect for the rule of law, separation of powers and independence of judiciary, transparency and accountability in public administration, principles of tolerant policy, free, independent and pluralistic media. Their statements during the discussions helped me to understand which reforms are important for the democracy promotion in young independent states and how to encourage young professionals to become leaders.

I agree with a statement, that we cannot do everything immediately, but we can do something at once.

Active participation of citizens in the NGO activities will enable their self-organization experience, leadership skills that increase the level of education, the emergence of new leaders in a favorable environment. I am sure that human rights education should begin through encouragement of political and civic population, enhancing their political culture, creating conditions for citizens’ interest in implementing reforms, providing mechanisms for human rights protection. Professional education is the basis for preparation and training for personal development of politically and socially active citizens who feel responsibility for the state. Because of this it was especially meaningful to have the first day training sessions about Humanity in Action activities, projects and programs, human rights education. It was interesting to find out how democracy is working in the world. For sure HIA is the key to the development of talented people with leadership qualities. The knowledge obtained during HIA Poland Fellowship Program will be a good support for us in our professional activities and carrier development. I look forwardfor further fruitful cooperation during our Action Projects implementation.

- Nadyia Popadyuk (Ukrainian Fellow)