Fulltrúalýðræði

Fulltrúalýðræði, also known as representative democracy, is a form of government where citizens elect individuals to represent their interests and make decisions on their behalf. Instead of participating directly in lawmaking, voters choose representatives, such as members of parliament or congress, to act as their voice in the legislative process. This system is widely adopted across the globe, often contrasted with direct democracy, where citizens vote on policies themselves.

The core principle of fulltrúalýðræði is that elected officials are accountable to the electorate. This accountability is typically maintained through regular elections, allowing citizens to re-elect or replace their representatives based on their performance and alignment with public opinion. The representatives are expected to deliberate on issues, propose and vote on legislation, and oversee the executive branch of government.

Various forms of fulltrúalýðræði exist, differing in electoral systems, the structure of government (e.g., parliamentary versus presidential systems), and the specific powers granted to elected officials. Proponents argue that it is a practical and efficient way to govern large and complex societies, allowing for specialized knowledge and reasoned debate. Critics sometimes raise concerns about the potential for representatives to become detached from their constituents or to be influenced by special interests. Nevertheless, it remains a dominant model for democratic governance.