Üldvalgutusest

Üldvalgutusest, also known as universal suffrage, is a principle of democracy that allows all adult citizens to vote in elections. This concept was first introduced in the late 19th century, primarily in response to the growing demand for greater political representation and the belief that the will of the people should be reflected in government decisions.

The implementation of universal suffrage varies across different countries and historical periods. In some cases, it was introduced gradually, with women's suffrage being granted before men's in certain jurisdictions. For example, New Zealand became the first country to grant women the right to vote in 1893, while the United Kingdom followed in 1918 and the United States in 1920.

The arguments for universal suffrage include the idea that it promotes equality, ensures that all citizens have a say in their governance, and reflects the principle of popular sovereignty. However, critics argue that universal suffrage can lead to the "tyranny of the majority," where the decisions of a majority can overlook the interests of minorities.

The process of achieving universal suffrage often involved significant social and political movements. These movements were driven by various factors, including economic inequality, social justice concerns, and the desire for greater political participation. The struggle for universal suffrage was not without its challenges, as it often required overcoming resistance from established political elites and societal norms.

Today, universal suffrage is a fundamental principle of modern democracies, with most countries granting voting rights to all adult citizens. However, there are still ongoing debates and efforts to expand suffrage to include additional groups, such as non-citizens or those with certain disabilities. The concept of universal suffrage continues to evolve, reflecting the changing nature of societies and the ongoing quest for greater political equality.