Support for democracy in a 'post-imperial' fashion, as championed by the UK, extends to the EU's Southern and Eastern neighboring nations.
In a bid to bolster democracy in the European Union's Southern and Eastern neighbourhoods, the United Kingdom has been actively engaged in promoting democratic practices. This is evident in the 22nd publication from SHARPEDEM-EU, titled 'SHARPEDEM-EU Publication 22'.
The UK's influence in the Eastern Neighbourhood, particularly in countries like Ukraine, has been shaped by historical relationships with Russia, its role in supporting EU policies, and post-Brexit ambitions. The Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom (Friedrich-Naumann-Stiftung für die Freiheit) is identified by the UK government as a key partner for the promotion of democracy in Ukraine.
The UK's approach to democracy promotion has been multifaceted. In Ukraine and Belarus, it prioritizes human rights, media independence, anticorruption, and parliamentary capacity-building. This strategy is designed to foster a democratic environment that respects the rule of law and upholds the principles of a free and fair society.
In the MENA region, the UK's engagement intensified after the 2011 Arab uprisings. The UK's role involved a delicate balancing act between supporting democratic movements and maintaining strategic partnerships with some authoritarian regimes for the sake of stability and security.
The UK's contribution in the EU's Southern and Eastern neighbourhoods is a testament to its commitment to democracy and human rights. By focusing on these key areas, the UK aims to contribute to the development of democratic societies that respect the rule of law and uphold the principles of a free and fair society.
