What Makes a Democracies Different to Other Democracies?
Democracy means “rule by the people” and it’s a system of government that empowers citizens, ensures their rights are protected and gives them the power to shape their lives. The word itself is a combination of two Greek words: demos, meaning ‘people’ and kratos, meaning “rule” or “power”. There are democracies all over the world, with different characteristics that make them unique. However, they all share certain fundamental elements. These are:
Having freedom of speech (UDHR, Article 19). This means that you can express your opinion in public without being prevented from doing so by law or violence, and you can hold politicians accountable for their actions. It also includes the right to peaceful assembly and association, so you can join groups that represent your interests or protest decisions you disagree with.
The ability to vote (UDHR, Article 21). This means that everyone has the right and the opportunity to participate in the political process by casting a ballot in elections for parliament, local governments and other institutions of power. It also includes the right to stand as a candidate for public office and be elected.
An effective legal system that protects your rights and guarantees justice for those who have been treated unfairly by government or private individuals (UDHR, Article 17). This also includes the right to be informed about your government’s policies and actions, and to have your views taken into account. This is important because democracy works best when everyone understands what the rules are and how they work.
A free economy that encourages growth and provides opportunities for all (UDHR, Article 23). This requires a balance between the market and government intervention in order to promote fair competition and create a level playing field. It should allow people to own property and assets, and to move freely across borders in the pursuit of employment and wealth.
Strong, inclusive societies that respect all their members and treat them equally, regardless of age, race, gender or religion (UDHR, Article 25). Democracy makes society stronger and more resilient by providing a platform for discussion, compromise and understanding. This is especially necessary in the face of adversity, like natural disasters exacerbated by climate change or economic recessions, and it can help communities to recover more quickly.
While there are still challenges to democracy in the world, we need to keep working together to strengthen it. We must acknowledge the arc of progress it has already made: abolishing slavery; granting women, LGBTQ people and indigenous Americans full equality; providing affordable healthcare and education; and developing groundbreaking technologies that improve the lives of all. Let’s remember this history while educating each new generation on how to sustain our democracy for generations to come. If you are interested in learning more about the work we do to support democracy, please reach out to us. Our team is ready to answer your questions!
Democracy means “rule by the people” and it’s a system of government that empowers citizens, ensures their rights are protected and gives them the power to shape their lives. The word itself is a combination of two Greek words: demos, meaning ‘people’ and kratos, meaning “rule” or “power”. There are democracies all over the world, with different characteristics that make them unique. However, they all share certain fundamental elements. These are: Having freedom of speech (UDHR, Article 19). This means that you can express your opinion in public without being prevented from doing so by law or violence, and you can hold politicians accountable for their actions. It also includes the right to peaceful assembly and association, so you can join groups that represent your interests or protest decisions you disagree with. The ability to vote (UDHR, Article 21). This means that everyone has the right and the opportunity to participate in the political process by casting a ballot in elections for parliament, local governments and other institutions of power. It also includes the right to stand as a candidate for public office and be elected. An effective legal system that protects your rights and guarantees justice for those who have been treated unfairly by government or private individuals (UDHR, Article 17). This also includes the right to be informed about your government’s policies and actions, and to have your views taken into account. This is important because democracy works best when everyone understands what the rules are and how they work. A free economy that encourages growth and provides opportunities for all (UDHR, Article 23). This requires a balance between the market and government intervention in order to promote fair competition and create a level playing field. It should allow people to own property and assets, and to move freely across borders in the pursuit of employment and wealth. Strong, inclusive societies that respect all their members and treat them equally, regardless of age, race, gender or religion (UDHR, Article 25). Democracy makes society stronger and more resilient by providing a platform for discussion, compromise and understanding. This is especially necessary in the face of adversity, like natural disasters exacerbated by climate change or economic recessions, and it can help communities to recover more quickly. While there are still challenges to democracy in the world, we need to keep working together to strengthen it. We must acknowledge the arc of progress it has already made: abolishing slavery; granting women, LGBTQ people and indigenous Americans full equality; providing affordable healthcare and education; and developing groundbreaking technologies that improve the lives of all. Let’s remember this history while educating each new generation on how to sustain our democracy for generations to come. If you are interested in learning more about the work we do to support democracy, please reach out to us. Our team is ready to answer your questions!