ABSTRACT
The process of democratization around the world starting in the seventies represents one key political transformation in contemporary history. Since 1974 the number of democracies in the world dramatically increased, constituting what Huntington called a third wave of democracy. The international dimension of democracy is the effort of international actors seeking to change or adapt political practices, institutions, laws, and policies in conformity to a model of democracy. Specifically, the relationship between the goals and means of international influence is reflected from the interaction of three dynamics. First, in the multiplicity of international actors involved in domestic political processes. Second, in the conditions under which actor involvement with democracy-building activities occurs. Third, in the use of varying forms of international influence. A growing number of international civil society organizations actively promote democracy, often as their raison d'etre. International mobilization for democracy occurs not only when political issues are at stake.
