Tuesday, 11 February 2014

Useful Thoughts On Democracy As A Concept

By Jerri Perry


Scholars have different thoughts on democracy. What they can all agree on is that democracy is a form of government with four main aspects. The major facets of this concept include active participation, the rule of law, free and fair elections as well as safeguarding human rights.

This regime permits people to opt for representatives they want. Dwellers pick persons to represent their interests in parliament and the head of government. These two crucial decisions are made at the polls where one makes a choice from among competing parties. The ones chosen are answerable to the people. They need to give an account of how they use their authority. The leaders ought to use power not for their own benefit but for the well being of the electorates.

Such a system holds the citizens sovereign. This simply means that they are the topmost form of political power. Authority flows from the people to those in office. Leaders stay in office for a limited time as provided for in the constitution of a given country. Before laws and policies are made, they must be supported by the majority in parliament. However, the interests of the minorities are still protected.

The main role of citizens in the system is active participation in public life. They are obligated to acquaint themselves on civic issues. It is their duty to carefully scrutinize how their representatives utilize authority. The people must always express their beliefs and interests. An important form of participation is manifested through dynamic membership in autonomous non governmental organizations commonly referred to as civil society.

It is of essence for women to take part in political affairs and the civil society. This will only be possible if the non governmental organizations educate them on their democratic rights as well as their responsibilities. Women need to be equipped with political skills as well as ways they can present their interests. They ought to be involved in development activities just like their male counterparts.

Participation in civil societies ought to be a voluntary activity. No one should be forced to be a member of any society. The same concept applies to political parties. Citizens are free to decide which parties they want to support. At the same time, each person ought to accommodate views of other people even when he does not agree with them. The variety of different kinds of people is celebrated in countries practicing this essential rule.

A country which upholds social equality ought to respect the rights and freedoms of its inhabitants. These rights are safeguarded under international law. Everyone has a right to have his own beliefs and to express himself. Religion is also an important aspect. Each person is free to practice his own religion as he deems fit. Additionally, one is free to associate with others at whichever level he pleases.

The rule of law indicates that justice is delivered with impartiality by experienced and skillful persons. The ones served with this responsibility must be in substantial numbers with ample resources. Laws have to be made in a credible manner. All things considered, the varied thoughts on democracy recap the concept as government wholly left in the hands of the citizens.




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