Demokratijos

Demokratijos, in Lithuanian usage, is the word used to describe democracy, the system in which political authority is derived from the people and exercised either directly or through elected representatives. The base noun is demokratija; demokratijos is the form used in many phrases such as demokratijos principai (principles of democracy).

Democracy can take various forms. In direct democracy, citizens vote on laws and policies themselves; in representative democracy, elected representatives decide on behalf of the people. Liberal democracies emphasize individual rights and the rule of law, while deliberative or participatory varieties stress public reasoning and broad citizen engagement.

Core institutions typically include free and fair elections, an independent judiciary, accountability mechanisms for government, a free press, and a vibrant civil society. Protected civil and political rights, the rule of law, and checks and balances help prevent the abuse of power.

Historically, democracy has roots in ancient Greece and reappeared in modern constitutional forms in Europe and the Americas. The 20th century saw widespread democratization, though many countries today face challenges such as populism, polarization, corruption, and disinformation that can threaten democratic practice.

In Lithuania, demokracija is implemented as a parliamentary republic. The Seimas, a unicameral 141-member parliament elected for four-year terms, is the main legislative body; a directly elected president serves as head of state; the government is led by a prime minister and cabinet and operates under the 1992 Constitution. Lithuania joined the European Union and NATO in 2004.