What Is Democracy? Why Democracy?

Democracy

A government where leaders are elected by the people.

Key Feature of Democracy

The government is chosen by the people.

Elected Leaders

In a democracy, these individuals must make major decisions.

Free and Fair Elections

Elections that are fair and give those out of power a real chance to win.

Political Equality

A basic principle of democracy stating every adult should have one vote of equal value.

Rule of Law

In a democracy, the government operates within the law and respects citizens’ rights.

Context of Non-Democracy

Countries like Myanmar and China illustrate systems without elected rulers or fair elections.

One Person, One Vote, One Value

In a true democracy, every adult's vote counts equally.

Accountability in Democracy

Democracies are more accountable than non-democratic systems.

Conflict Resolution in Democracy

Democracy helps manage differences peacefully among diverse groups.

Cons of Democracy

Potential instability from changing leaders and risks of poor decisions leading to corruption.

Broader Meanings of Democracy

Understanding democracy extends beyond government to all parts of life.

Representative Democracy

A system where elected officials make decisions due to large populations.

Gram Sabha

A small community format where decisions are made collectively.