The great ideological battles between liberalism and communism, or between democracy and authoritarianism, have been replaced by a general consensus on the desirability of liberal democracy.
The spread of liberal democracy and the integration of the world economy have created a situation in which the only legitimate form of government is one that is based on popular sovereignty and respects basic human rights.
The spread of liberal democracy and the integration of the world economy have created a situation in which the major powers are no longer willing to risk war with one another.
The most effective way to promote democracy is not through military intervention but through the slow and steady process of building institutions and promoting economic development.