Diplomats Without Borders founding member, former United Nations Under-Secretary-General, and former President of the Kofi Annan Foundation, Alan Doss, engages in a thoughtful dialogue with Dr. Brian Wong of Oxford Global Society for their Democracy and Development series. Drawing from his extensive experience in international diplomacy and development, Doss offers valuable insights on the current state of democracy worldwide.
In this compelling conversation, Doss reflects on his decades of work in developing and conflict-affected nations, emphasizing that democracy is not a universal solution for development challenges. He argues that democratic governance must deliver tangible benefits to citizens to maintain public trust, particularly among youth in newly democratizing countries.
Doss explores the intricate relationships between democracy and development, examining case studies from various nations including China, Congo, and Myanmar. He posits that while democracy can drive development through increased accountability and inclusion, it cannot be externally imposed and must emerge as a "local construct".
The discussion also touches on the United Nations' role in promoting democracy and development. Doss acknowledges the UN's limitations in these areas, noting that the organization itself is not fully democratic due to the veto power held by only five of its 194 member states.
This insightful exchange offers valuable perspectives for policymakers, development practitioners, and anyone interested in the complex interplay between governance systems and socioeconomic progress. It serves as a timely examination of the challenges facing democracy in today's rapidly changing global landscape.
Watch the full interview:
[YouTube video embed: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=58dmqq6CTMo]
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