A/HRC/22/29 10. Furthermore, democracy infers a type of behavior or performance which is necessary for its formal integration, safeguarding and sustainability, and which is essential for (a) the protection of institutions, (b) the accountability of power-holders and (c) the respect and protection of the rule of law and human rights. Such performance is a determining factor in the quality of any transitional process as an open-ended attempt at the realization of democracy. B. Universality of the concept, and diversity of mechanisms 1. Universality of the concept 11. There is no preeminent tradition of democracy that imposes itself on others. Democracy is not linked to one specific cultural context more than another. However, while the values of democracy are similar, their expression can differ according to specific contexts. It is the conditions prevalent in a given context that qualify it as more democratic than another. Hence, the strengthening of local democratic infrastructures reinforces the global advance of democracy. Ultimately, democracy is stronger and more resilient when it is grounded in legitimate, representative and fair mechanisms of sociopolitical interaction. 12. Narrow interpretations of democracy, such as those confining it to a procedural concept irrespective of its context, do not reflect adequately its inherently universal dimensions. If, in effect, the practice of democracy can and indeed should be contextualized, its core values are demonstrably universal, and this universality is best encapsulated in the fact that everywhere around the world, people demand respect for their rights and this demand is ultimately best accomplished in a state of democracy respectful of the rule of law. 13. Participants at the third International Conference of New or Restored Democracies, held in Bucharest in 1997, noted that there was ―an almost universal recognition that a democratic system of government is the best model to ensure a framework of liberties‖.4 The majority of States have adhered to the international instruments that establish the values of democracy, including in particular the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights. 2. Diversity of mechanisms 14. The mechanisms adopted to give practical meaning to the principles of democracy come in different guises. As noted by the Secretary-General, democracy is not a model to be copied from certain States, but a goal to be attained by all peoples and assimilated by all cultures. It may take many forms, depending on the characteristics and circumstances of societies (A/50/332, para. 5). 15. Checks and balances mechanisms are necessary to give substance to democracy and exercise proper control. Holding free and fair elections, administering transparent rules and effective regulations, teasing out participatory dynamics and protecting and promoting rights and freedoms, all of which governed by the rule of law, constitute a complex set of activities that require the effective establishment and functioning of self-sustaining institutions. 4 Note verbale dated 10 September 1997 from the Permanent Representative of Romania to the United Nations, addressed to the Secretary General (A/52/334, appendix, p. 3). 5