What is Democracy? Why Democracy?

• Introduction

  • Meaning of Democracy
  • Origin: Greek word 'Demokratia' (demos = people, kratos = rule)
  • Broad definition: A form of government where rulers are elected by the people.

• Features of Democracy

  • Major Decisions by Elected Rulers
    • Real power lies with those elected by citizens.
    • Example of Pakistan under General Pervez Musharraf (Legal Framework Order, 2002).
  • Free and Fair Electoral Competition
    • Genuine choice for voters.
    • Ruling party must have a chance of losing.
    • Example of China (only Communist Party allowed) and Mexico (PRI's malpractices).
  • One Person, One Vote, One Value
    • Political equality in voting.
    • Examples of denial: Saudi Arabia (women's voting rights), Estonia (Russian minority), Fiji (indigenous vote valued higher).
  • Rule of Law and Respect for Rights
    • Government limited by constitutional law and citizens' rights.
    • Example of Zimbabwe (ZANU-PF and Robert Mugabe undermining judicial independence).

• Why Democracy? (Arguments against Democracy)

  • Instability due to changing leaders.
  • Delay in decision-making due to consultations.
  • Corruption and moral issues in electoral competition.
  • Ordinary people do not know what is good for them.

• Why Democracy? (Arguments for Democracy)

  • Accountable form of government (responds to people's needs).
  • Improves the quality of decision-making (based on wide discussion).
  • Provides methods to deal with differences and conflicts (peaceful resolution in diverse societies).
  • Enhances the dignity of citizens (political equality and fundamental rights).
  • Allows us to correct its own mistakes.

• Broader Meanings of Democracy

  • Representative Democracy (most common form today).
  • Ideal standard that every democracy must strive to reach.
  • Applies to government, families, classrooms, and organizations.
  • Citizen Participation is the crucial test of true democracy.