What is Democracy?
Democracy is a form of government where power is vested in the people, who rule either directly or through elected representatives. It is a system that allows citizens to participate in decision-making processes, ensuring their voices are heard and their rights are respected.
Key Features of Democracy
- Regular elections
- Freedom of speech and press
- Rule of law
- Protection of minority rights
Examples of Democracy
Countries like the United States, Canada, and India are examples of democracies where citizens have the right to vote for their leaders and shape public policies through their representatives.
Case Study: The United States
The United States is a federal democratic republic where power is divided between the federal government and state governments. Its Constitution guarantees individual rights and limits the powers of the government.
Statistics on Democracy
According to the Democracy Index, Norway, Iceland, and Sweden are ranked as the top three countries with the highest levels of democracy, based on factors like electoral process, civil liberties, and government functioning.