What is Democracy?

Democracy is a political system in which government is either carried out by the people (direct democracy), or the power to govern is granted to elected representatives (representative democracy).

Democracy usually promotes the two principals of equality and freedom. These principles are reflected by all citizens being equal before the law, and all citizens having equal access to power.

A third common principle, though less measurable, is that all citizens are promised certain legitimized freedoms and liberties, which are generally protected by a constitution.

One of the most important things in representative democracies is competitive elections, that are fair in both independence and procedure. Additionally, freedom of political expression, freedom of speech and freedom of the press are essential so that citizens are informed and able to vote in their personal interests.