Managing the Dangers of Democratic Transition in Russia
This article examines some of the linkages between democratization and armed conflict, and the forces which may encourage or mitigate conflict during democratic transitions. Focusing on the transition process occurring in the newly independent states of the former Soviet Union (NIS), the article examines the dangers that can arise in the transition toward democracy and the role of the international community – including Canada – in helping secure peaceful democratization within the region. The article concludes with some general observations on the merits of democracy promotion as a foreign policy goal and the means of attaining democracy.