Core democratic principles are outlined in this note. Some of the more important procedures to develop, maintain, improve… democracies are described. The following are identified as essential elements of democracy:
- Democracy is government by and for the citizens
- Respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms are written into constitutions
- Freedom of association: citizens have the right to form independent associations and organisations, including independent political parties and interest groups
- Freedom of expression and opinion: citizens have the right to express themselves on all matters including politics without the risk of state punishment; citizens are ethically, morally, legally… responsible for their actions
- Access to power and its exercise is in accordance with the rule of law:
- All adults have the right to vote in elections
- All adults have the right to run for public office
- As an expression of the will of the people, elected representatives:
- Are chosen in frequent and fair elections by: universal suffrage; secret ballot
- Exercise their constitutional powers without facing overriding opposition from unelected officials
- A pluralistic system of political parties and organizations is essential
- The separation of powers – executive, legislative, judicial – is written into constitutions
- The independence of the judiciary is written into constitutions
- Transparency and accountability in public administration is constitutional
- Free, independent, pluralistic… media: citizens have the right to seek out alternative sources of information, such as the news media. Such sources are protected by law
- Control over government decisions about policy constitutionality is vested in the elected representatives
- Government is autonomous and able to act independently from outside constraints such as those imposed by alliances, blocs… other powerful entities