Democracy is any system of rule by the people. It is based on freedom of speech, association, movement and belief; on the separation of power in government, parliament and the courts; on elections where people choose their representatives, with rules that prevent abuse of power; and on laws that are fair, clearly written and protect people’s rights. It also supports the development and well-being of individuals and their right to make choices, including about their own lives, health, education and work. People have the ability to hold their elected representatives accountable, which is particularly important in our modern world of fast changing technology and new challenges like global warming and economic inequality.
Democracy has not prevented all the bad things that can happen, but it has done better than alternatives like dictatorships and one-party systems. Research shows that it has improved the quality of decision-making, provided methods to deal with disagreements and conflicts, and enhanced people’s dignity and sense of their own worth. Democracy is self-correcting: when it fails, its institutions and processes provide ways to repair it and build more democratic societies for the future.
Democracy is a complex, ongoing conversation that needs everyone’s voice to be heard and work. That could mean voting, participating in an online debate, writing to your local newspaper or joining a community group that works for environmental or social justice. It is especially important that young people are engaged in this process at a local level. This will help them understand the issues that affect their community and allow them to take action in a way that matters to them.
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