formulating security policies, executing, regulating and controlling security-related responsibilities. It affects the global structure of security institutions, organs and actors, resources (allocation and use thereof), in interaction with the other public and private sectors, with particular regard to the decision-making process and development. Apart from the institutional actors, security governance requires all the societal regulating and conflict resolution mechanisms which contribute to the promotion of peace, while constantly anticipating threats inherent in community life. The increasing number and complexity of threats to security, as well as the emergence of new actors on the security scene demonstrate that the issue of security can no longer remain the exclusive responsibility of security agencies. Security, according to its new meaning, is a precious public good, the preservation of which should be the concern of everybody, each one at his own level, depending on individual capacities, role and responsibilities. Therefore, security governance should be built on a solid institutional and legal ground, within a healthy and democratic environment. From here, we move into the era of Security Democratic Governance. 1.23. Democratic Governance of the Security Sector. It is about the inclusive management of security-related issues between the security departments and their political, economic, social and cultural partners. It implies adherence of defence and security forces to the principles that underly universal democracy. It requires opening up to the other security actors and their involvement in the design and implementation of security policies, a transparent management of security issues and respect for the rules governing democratic oversight. Furthermore, the democratic governance of the security sector calls for the opening of security departments to the other actors of the security sector and the widest possible participation of government authorities, general public administration, political actors, civil society organisations, the private sector, local authorities, communities and partners in development to the 16