"Acceptance of democracy promotion as a norm of practice within the international system is a new global trend. Humanitarian assistance is an integral part of democracy promotion. There is also a widespread agreement that democracy promotes human rights, development, and peace The practical manifestation of this trend has been a proliferation of democracy-assistance programs funded by governments, multilateral bodies such as the United Nations and the European Union, international financial institutions, and independent foundations. Such programs, which have gained broad international support, provide technical and material assistance to governments that are trying to consolidate democracy, as well as to nongovernmental groups that seek to monitor public institutions and processes, promote human rights and access to information, and encourage democratic participation..."