Democracy

Democracy (also spelled "dimuqraadi") is a political system in which the power of government rests on the will of the people. The word derives from ancient Greek: "demos" (the people) and "kratos" (rule or power), meaning rule by the people. The people exercise their power directly or through representatives elected to act on their behalf.

When compared with other systems—such as absolute monarchy or authoritarianism—democracy is distinguished by competitive elections for government, fixed terms for holding power, and the subjection of power to law. If elections are held but competition is not open, many scholars call this only a nominal form of democracy.

Types of democracy

Two broad types exist. Direct democracy is when citizens themselves vote on decisions, for example through referendums. Representative democracy is when people elect legislators or leaders who make laws. Many countries use a combination: regular elections supplemented by referendums on specific issues.

The structure of government is further distinguished by presidential systems (in which the president is elected and leads the executive) and parliamentary systems (in which the prime minister has confidence of parliament). There is also constitutional monarchy, in which the monarch is a figurehead while actual power rests with parliament.

Foundations and requirements

Key features commonly used to define democracy include free and fair elections held regularly; universal suffrage for the adult population; freedom of speech, association, and press; independent courts; and separation of powers among three branches—legislature, executive, and judiciary. It is also essential to protect the rights of minorities by law, so that majorities do not violate their rights.

Brief history

The roots of democratic thought are traced to ancient Athens, where part of the free male population participated in assemblies to make decisions, though women, slaves, and foreigners were excluded. Later centuries saw the limiting of monarchical power and the emergence of parliaments. The eighteenth and nineteenth centuries saw the adoption of constitutions and broader elections, while women's suffrage and universal suffrage were largely achieved by the twentieth century.

Challenges

Democratic systems face challenges such as corruption, money's influence on campaigns, misinformation, declining voter participation, and divisions along ethnic, religious, or ideological lines that make political competition turn into confrontation. There is also a question of how decisions reached by majorities can be reconciled with inalienable rights.