Democracy Quote by Condoleezza Rice
“Democratic openings that come about in that way - the overthrow of a totalitarian government by external powers - it makes it really hard to make those first steps toward democracy.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Public remarks on democratic transitions, Condoleezza Rice, 2015
External overthrow of dictators makes it difficult for new democracies to take their first steps.
In simple terms: Foreign coups hinder early democratic progress.
Key Takeaway
Support organic, internal democratic growth.
Themes
democracy
intervention
political transition
Mood
cautious
analytical
Type
political
strategic
When to use this quote
- post‑coup reconstruction
- nation‑building
- policy planning
Key Concepts
sovereignty
external influence
Questions to Reflect On
- How can external actors aid without dominating?
- What internal factors foster democratic resilience?
A Different Perspective
External forces can destabilize nascent democracy.
![“[I'm] very fortunate and blessed person who still has a lot of living to do.” quote by Condoleezza Rice](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/600/condoleezza-rice-807_blessed_i-m-very-fortunate-and-blessed-person-wh_88385.jpg)
![“I've always said as a political scientist that "culture" is what we use when we can't explain things. I think it's more about accessibility. Part of the problem is that this is an expensive game [golf]. I know in a couple of places where there are black members, and they come from pretty much the…” quote by Condoleezza Rice](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/21a/condoleezza-rice-807_accessibility_i-ve-always-said-as-a-political-scientis_121021.jpg)
![“Vote for Donald Trump. You're going to see something and you'll be so happy, you'll be so thrilled. This [presidential] election is about every man, woman and child in our country who deserves to live in safety, prosperity and peace, so true.” quote by Donald Trump](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/18e/donald-trump-18_children_vote-for-donald-trump-you-re-going-to-se_1553.jpg)
