What is Democracy?
Democracy is a system of government where power is vested in the people, who rule either directly or through freely elected representatives. This form of governance is based on the principles of equality, freedom, and participation.
Key features of democracy include:
Free and fair elections
Protection of individual rights and freedoms
Rule of law
Separation of powers
Multiparty system
Freedom of speech and press
Democracy allows citizens to have a say in how they are governed, promoting accountability and responsiveness from leaders. It encourages peaceful transitions of power and provides mechanisms for resolving conflicts through dialogue and compromise.
However, democracy faces challenges such as voter apathy, polarization, and the influence of money in politics. Despite these issues, it remains a widely adopted system of governance, valued for its ability to protect individual rights and promote social progress.