democratization

Democratization is the process by which a state moves from an authoritative or non-democratic political system toward a more open and participatory government. It typically involves expanding political rights and civil liberties, instituting regular competitive elections, and building accountable institutions that limit the power of rulers.

Core components often include universal suffrage, multiparty competition, the rule of law, an independent judiciary, a free press, robust civil society, and protections for minority rights. Democratization can be endogenous, arising from social mobilization, elite bargaining, and reform momentum, or exogenous, influenced by international norms, external pressure, or economic interactions.

Scholars distinguish transitions, consolidations, and deepening democracy. Huntington's notion of a "third wave" describes broad waves of democratization since the 19th and especially the late 20th century. Democratization is not guaranteed to proceed monotonically and can face backsliding, partial reforms, or stagnation.

Measurement varies but commonly uses indicators of political rights and civil liberties, institutional quality, and governance performance. Ongoing debates address the durability of democracies, the resilience of liberal norms, and the balance between majority rule and minority protections.