Obama stresses democracy

One of the most closely-watched issues in President Obama's speech to the Muslim world was how he would deal with democracy.

As on many other issues, he tackled it head-on, but seemed to pick a middle path, emphasizing that the yearning for democracy is universal, but refraining from hectoring Muslim regimes that are not democracies.

He did, however, pointedly say that governments maintain their power "through consent, not coercion" and "must respect the rights of minorities, and participate with a spirit of tolerance and compromise."

As the Globe reported this week, former President George W. Bush's pro-democracy lecturing ended up alienating many Muslims who saw it as a justification for the Iraq war, but Obama is quietly seeking more money for the democracy programs launched under Bush.

"I know there has been controversy about the promotion of democracy in recent years, and much of this controversy is connected to the war in Iraq. So let me be clear: No system of government can or should be imposed by one nation by any other," Obama said today in Cairo.

"That does not lessen my commitment, however, to governments that reflect the will of the people. Each nation gives life to this principle in its own way, grounded in the traditions of its own people. America does not presume to know what is best for everyone, just as we would not presume to pick the outcome of a peaceful election. But I do have an unyielding belief that all people yearn for certain things: the ability to speak your mind and have a say in how you are governed; confidence in the rule of law and the equal administration of justice; government that is transparent and doesn't steal from the people; the freedom to live as you choose. These are not just American ideas; they are human rights. And that is why we will support them everywhere," the president continued.

"Now, there is no straight line to realize this promise. But this much is clear: Governments that protect these rights are ultimately more stable, successful and secure. Suppressing ideas never succeeds in making them go away. America respects the right of all peaceful and law-abiding voices to be heard around the world, even if we disagree with them. And we will welcome all elected, peaceful governments -- provided they govern with respect for all their people. This last point is important because there are some who advocate for democracy only when they're out of power; once in power, they are ruthless in suppressing the rights of others. So no matter where it takes hold, government of the people and by the people sets a single standard for all who would hold power. You must maintain your power through consent, not coercion; you must respect the rights of minorities, and participate with a spirit of tolerance and compromise; you must place the interests of your people and the legitimate workings of the political process above your party. Without these ingredients, elections alone do not make true democracy."

A human rights group gave Obama positive reviews.

“It was refreshing to hear President Obama invite Egypt and other nations throughout this important region to become equal partners in the pursuit of democracy and human rights. The United States cannot unilaterally impose new policies, and today’s remarks reflect a keen understanding of that reality," Elisa Massimino, CEO of Human Rights First, said in a statement.

"Only through protection of human rights and the guarantee of freedom of religion, speech, and political expression can a nation truly embrace the riches of democracy. President Obama also reiterated his commitment to lead by example with regard human rights. We welcomed his renewed commitment to close the detention facility at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba by early next year. This is an important step that must happen if the United States is to reclaim its moral authority and partner with other nations to enhance human rights protections."