Democratic transition requires the support and active participation of governments and relevant professionals and also needs to engage civil society.

In its democratization activities, ODIHR brings people together across borders on a professional level to discuss issues and develop capacities necessary for the consolidation of a democratic culture. These efforts bridge governments and civil society, allowing for a constructive debate on topics that are often potentially divisive.

ODIHR regards local ownership and the use of relevant experiences and expertise from other participating States with comparable situations as critical to success. In addition, in all its work in the area of democratization, the Office strives to complement the work of field missions.