This publication considers the issues and challenges involved in the UN's work to promote democratic governance throughout the world, and explores how the ideals of democracy interact with the realities of power in the international arena and in the societies involved. Topics discussed include: democracy and international law, consultation and accountability arrangements in UN transitional arrangements, UN electoral assistance and elections in post-conflict societies, and UNDP experience in long-term democracy assistance. The publication also contains case studies of experiences in Namibia, Cambodia, Kosovo, East Timor and Afghanistan.