folkesuverænitet

Folkesuverænitet, often translated as popular sovereignty, is a fundamental principle in political philosophy and a cornerstone of many modern democracies. It posits that the authority of a state and its government are created and sustained by the consent of its people, through their elected representatives, who are the source of all political power. This means that the ultimate power rests with the citizens, not with a monarch, an aristocracy, or any other single entity.

The concept gained prominence during the Enlightenment, championed by thinkers like Jean-Jacques Rousseau, who argued that legitimate political authority arises from a social contract among free and equal individuals. In practice, folkesuverænitet is typically exercised through elections, where citizens choose representatives to make decisions on their behalf. Referendums and plebiscites are other mechanisms through which the will of the people can be directly expressed.

While the ideal is that governments derive their just powers from the consent of the governed, the practical implementation can vary. Issues such as voter turnout, the fairness of electoral systems, and the influence of special interests can all impact how effectively folkesuverænitet is realized. Nevertheless, the principle remains a powerful ideal, emphasizing the importance of citizen participation and accountability in governance. It forms the basis for concepts like self-determination and the right of a people to establish their own form of government.