India’s role as a facilitator of constitutional democracy

Abstract

How can the unique knowledge, experiences, institutions, norms, and ideas from developing countries contribute to the political, economic, and social development of other developing countries? This question is worth asking, as ongoing discussions regarding emerging donors have failed to explore the possible contribution of developing countries to governance issues through the utilisation of their unique resources. This article examines the realities and potential of India’s contribution to the enhancement of democratic governance in developing countries. It argues that India’s enduring experience with constitutional democracy has attracted attention from other developing countries, particularly those who are tackling the daunting challenge of consolidating democracy in tandem with the projects of building a coherent nation and legitimate and functioning state within the inherently hostile environment of an ethnically and religiously divided society.