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Non-Aligned Movement reiterates that democracy is a universal value and takes note of the operationalization of the UN Democracy Fund

The final document adopted at the Havana Summit of the Non-Aligned Movement has a section on democracy which highlights the key features of democracy and the role of the United Nations in the promotion of democratic practices, as stated in paragraphs 120 to 122, reproduced below:

120. The Heads of State or Government reiterated that democracy is a universal value based on the freely expressed will of the people to determine their own political, economic, social and cultural systems and their full participation in all aspects of their lives. They reaffirmed that while all democracies share common features, there is no single model of democracy, that it does not belong to any country or region, and further reaffirmed the necessity of due respect for sovereignty and the right to self-determination. They expressed their conviction that international co-operation for the promotion of democracy, on the basis of respect for the principles enshrined in the UN Charter as well as those of transparency, impartiality, non-selectivity and inclusiveness, could contribute to the attainment of the goal of democracy consolidation at national and international levels.

121. The Heads of State or Government reaffirmed that democracy, development and respect for all human rights and fundamental freedoms are interdependent and mutually reinforcing. The international community should support the strengthening and promotion of democracy, development and respect for all human rights and fundamental freedoms in the entire world, in compliance with the purposes and principles of the UN Charter.

122. The Heads of State or Government recalled the pledge by the leaders of UN Member States, as reaffirmed in the 2005 World Summit Outcome, and noted the important role of the UN in the promotion and strengthening of democratic practices in Member States which have sought legal, technical and financial assistance. The Heads of State or Government took note of the operationalization of the UN Democracy Fund.

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