Democratization Key Terms

Democratic Regime

A set of institutions that allow citizens to choose policymakers through free, competitive elections.

ex. The UK, where citizens elect members of Parliament

Procedural Democracy

Focused primarily on election processes and political competition, often without guaranteeing full civil liberties of equal participation.

ex. In Mexico where regular decisions are held; however, challenges like media bias and political corruption may affect 100% fairness.

Substantive Democracy

Beyond free and fair elections, it includes freedoms like press, organization, independent courts, and minority equality.

ex. Canada guaranteed freedom of expression and association with strong legal protections for the rights of minorities.

Three Waves of Democratization

Historical periods of global spread of democratic governments.

1st (1820's to 1920's) of Three Waves of Democratization

Expansions of democracy in U.S. and West Europe.

2nd (Post WWII) of Three Waves of Democratization

Democratization of Nations such as Japan and West Germany.

3rd (1970's to 1990's) of Three Waves of Democratization

Surge of transitions to democracy in LATAM, East Europe, and Africa.

Level of Economic Development

The economic status of a country, influencing it's capacity to sustain democratic institutions.

ex. Nigeria's poverty struggle and economic equality raise challenge to it's democratic consolidation.

International Environment of Democracy

Global factors and influences then affect a country's democratization process.

ex. EU prospective members required to uphold democratic principals which encouraged political reforms in Eastern European countries.

Rule of Law

The principle that all individuals and institutions are subject to and accountable under the law.

ex. In the U.S., the judiciary operates independently, ensuring laws are applied equally to all citizens.

Prestige

Level of respect a country/leader holds, influences soft power and diplomatic relations.

ex. Norways reputation to numen wants enhances international standing.

Incentives

Motivations of rewards designed to encourage specific behaviors /actions.

ex. Economic packages offered to countries implementing democratic reforms.

Authoritarian Breakdown

The collapse or transformation of an authoritarian regime, usually leading to a transition towards democracy.

ex. The dissolution of the Soviet Union, lead to emergences of multiple independent democratic states.

Democratization from Above

Democratic reforms initiated by a country's leadership rather than through popular movements.

ex. Chilean military governments decisions to hold referendum, leading to transition to civilian rule.

Democratization from Below

Changes driven by grass road movements and popular protests.

ex. Polish solidarity movement, which played big role in end of communist rule.

Military Dictatorship

A form of government where the military controls the political power, usually after seize of power.

ex. The regime of General Augosto Pinochet in Chile.

Personalistic Authoritarian

Dictatorship where power is concentrated around one leader who rules based on personal loyalty.

ex. North Korea under Kim Jong-Un.

Single-Party Authoritarian Regime

Where one political party dominates the government, and opposite parties are banned or heavily restricted.

ex. Chine under the CCP, no political parties can challenge their rule.

Democratic Consolidation

The process of making democrat stable, resilient, and unlikely to revert to authoritarianism.

ex. Democratic institutions in S. Africa have remained strong since the end of the apartheid.

Military Coup

When the military takes control of government, usually removing elected leader.

ex. 2023 in Niger where military removed civilian government.

Executive Coup

When a leader seizes more power by undermining democratic institutions, often dismantling checks and balances.

ex. When Adolf used the Reichstag fire to justify eliminating opposition and consolidating power.

Corruption

Abuse of power for personal gain using bribery, fraud, or mismanagement of public funds.

ex. The draining of Nigerian assets.

Illiberal/Electoral/Partial Democracy

A system whose elections exist but civil liberties, media freedom,, and political rights are restricted.

ex. Hungary under Orbán where elections take place, but opposition voices are silenced.