demokraatia

Demokraatia, or democracy, is a system of government in which political power is derived from the people. The term comes from the Greek demos, people, and kratos, rule. Democracy can be practiced directly, where citizens participate in decision making, or indirectly, via elected representatives. In Finnish and Estonian, the term demokraatia is used for democracy.

Core components include free and fair elections, universal suffrage, openness to political competition, the rule of law, protection of civil liberties, accountability of leaders, and pluralism of political parties and associations. An independent judiciary, a free press, and civil society groups help safeguard these principles.

Different forms include direct democracy, representative democracy, liberal democracy, and participatory or deliberative models. Most contemporary democracies are representative liberal systems that combine elections with constitutional rights and checks and balances.

Historical development: ancient Greek city-states pioneered direct participation. Modern democracy emerged in Europe and the Atlantic world during the Enlightenment and related revolutions, with a broader spread in the 19th and 20th centuries as suffrage and institutions expanded.

Challenges include democratic backsliding, authoritarianism, misinformation, money in politics, and unequal access to voting. Institutions may be weakened by corruption, polarization, or manipulation of electoral processes. The resilience of democracy depends on the rule of law, media freedom, and inclusive participation.

Strengthening democracy involves independent election commissions, periodic constitutional reform where needed, protection of minority rights, transparent governance, and civic education that promotes informed participation.