Demokratisk

Demokratisk is a Swedish adjective meaning related to democracy or supporting democratic principles. It is used to describe systems, institutions, processes, or values that are characterized by the rule of the people, political participation, and openness.

The word derives from demokrati (democracy), which in turn comes from the Greek words demos (the people) and kratos (power). In Swedish, demokratisk inflects for number and definiteness, appearing as demokratisk, demokratiska, and in other inflected forms depending on syntax. It is commonly paired with nouns such as statsskick, val, rättigheter, processer, and kultur to form phrases like demokratiskt styre, demokratiska val, demokratiska rättigheter, demokratiska institutioner, and demokratiska processer.

In political science and public discourse, demokratisk is used to distinguish governance that reflects democratic principles from authoritarian, totalitarian, or oligarchic systems. Core components often associated with demokratiska regimes include free and fair elections, rule of law, protection of civil liberties, separation of powers, transparency, accountability, and citizen participation. The concept also encompasses ongoing processes of democratization, or demokratisering, which describe shifts toward greater political inclusion and responsive governance.

Outside politics, demokratisk can describe non-political contexts that aim for open, participatory, or inclusive methods and structures—such as demokratiska arbetsprocesser (participatory work processes) or demokratiskt beslutsfattande (democratic decision-making). Overall, the term signals alignment with principles that empower and involve people in political and social life.