ABSTRACT

International mobilization to promote democracy in Nicaragua is linked to a particular set of historical and political relationships that began with undemocratic US influence in domestic politics and more recently involves active international support for democratization. The 1979 Nicaraguan Revolution that overthrew the Somoza dictatorship established a new pattern of international relations for Nicaragua that changed the terms of the country's traditional dependence on the United States. Persistent US military intervention led to the consolidation of dependence at all levels; economic, social, cultural, and political. The allocation of resources suggests that democratization has become an important political terrain for international actors to influence other states and societies with their values and interests. International non-governmental organizations, international organizations and state actors no longer only offer support for democratization through official development assistance, but also implement programs specifically oriented towards democratization. The mediation role offered by Costa Rica intertwined peace and democracy. This linkage prevailed and facilitated the transition to democratic installation.