democratizar

Democratizar is a verb used in Spanish and Portuguese to mean the process of making something more democratic: expanding the participation of people in decision making, increasing accountability of authorities, and extending political or social rights. The term is applied to political systems, institutions, and social practices and implies a shift toward broader inclusion rather than a simple formal change.

Etymology: derived from the noun democracy, from Greek demos "the people" and kratos "power," with the suffix -izar forming verbs meaning to cause to become. In many contexts it denotes both political transitions and gradual reforms that enhance popular control over governance and resources.

Applications include political democratization, such as transitions to multi-party elections and the rule of law; procedural democratization, such as participatory budgeting, open data, and civil society oversight; and digital or economic democratization, such as wider access to information technology and education. It also appears in corporate or organizational contexts as worker or citizen participation expands.

Critics note that democratization can be challenged by instability, elite capture, or populism, and that not all expansions of participation yield better outcomes. Effective democratization often requires supporting institutions, transparency, and education to ensure informed and responsible participation.