Demokratiskt

Demokratiskt is a Swedish adjective and sometimes an adverb meaning related to democracy or carried out in a democratic manner. It is used to describe systems, institutions, processes, or actions that rest on the principle of popular sovereignty, political equality, and the rule of law. Common phrases include ett demokratiskt samhälle (a democratic society), demokratiska principer (democratic principles), and beslutet togs demokratiskt (the decision was taken democratically).

Etymology and form: demokratiskt derives from demokratisk, the standard Swedish adjective for democracy, which in turn comes from Greek demos (people) and kratos (power), via Latin democraticus and other European languages. In Swedish grammar, demokratiskt is the neuter singular form used before neuter nouns, for example ett demokratiskt samhälle. Its other inflections include demokratiska for plural or common gender contexts. It can also function as an adverbial form in expressions such as “tagen demokratiskt” or “beslutet togs demokratiskt,” describing the manner of action.

Context and usage: the term is central in political discourse, law, education, media, and civics. It is often contrasted with authoritarian or undemocratic arrangements and is linked to concepts like demokratisering (democratization), transparency, accountability, free and fair elections, and protection of civil liberties. While closely associated with politics, demokratiskt can also describe non-political practices aligned with inclusive participation and equal rights.

See also: demokrati, demokratisk, demokratisering.