For many across the world, democracy is in a crisis of legitimacy and credibility. The idea that people have the right to control their government and that a government is legitimate only if and when it is controlled by the people has won almost global recognition, hardly matched by any other world view in modern history. It transcends cultures, religions and languages; it takes multiple forms and survives in the most inhospitable environments. However, the way in which the idea of democracy is translated into practice can leave much to be desired. In a world characterised by rising inequality, democratic systems will be judged on how they include and deliver to constituent populations. This book, a companion volume to 'Democracy, Conflict and Human Security: Pursuing Peace in the 21st Century', addresses the nexus between democracy, conflict and human security in a way which recognises that this is highly political, not technical, terrain. It places at centre stage the fundamental need for democratic practice, and reminds us that in every society, North and South, the democratic project is a long-term, ongoing one. This book is part of IDEA's efforts to contribute to a major ongoing debate and, hopefully, to the strengthening of a democratic practice that responds to the quests for human dignity and development. This publication contains specific studies which were contributed to the debate, from diverse experiences and contexts. The volume complements and enriches the first volume in two ways: by providing perspectives by leading scholars, analysts and policy-makers, and by offering a more in-depth look at critical themes and case studies.