There is no country in our world where all principles of democracy are fulfilled one hundred per cent. To attain all the goals of democracy all the time is probably not even possible, as our political systems are not built of concrete but people’s actions, and people are never faultless. If a democracy is to function as well as possible, it is important that all citizens – the ones who have been elected to office and the ones who elect them – know the principles of democracy and value them. Here is a list of some important ones:

Equality and Human Rights:

All individuals are valued equally, have equal opportunities, and may not be discriminated against because of their race, religion, ethnicity, language, gender or sexual orientation. The human rights of all citizens are protected. For example:

• Everyone has the right to freedom of movement and residence within their own country, and everyone has the right to leave and return to their own country.

• Everyone has the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion.

• Everyone has the right to freedom of opinion and expression.

• Everyone has the right to organize and take part in peaceful meetings

Economic Freedom:

The government allows some private ownership of property and businesses. People are allowed to choose their own work and join labour unions. It is generally accepted that a free market should exist in a democracy and the government should not control the economy.

Bill of Rights:

A list of citizens’ rights and freedoms. This document limits the power of government, explains the freedoms that are guaranteed to all people and protects people from a government that might abuse its powers.

The Rule of Law:

All are equal before the law and are entitled to equal protection of the law without discrimination. No one is above the law – this includes elected officials, the police and members of the military. Laws are enforced equally, fairly and consistently.

Control of the Abuse of Power:

Corruption occurs when government officials use public funds for their own benefit or they exercise power in an illegal way. To protect against these abuses of power, democratic governments are often structured to limit the powers of government offices and those who work for them.

Free and Fair Elections:

Elected officials are chosen by the people in a free and fair manner. Elections are held regularly, usually every few years. Most adult citizens have the right to vote and run for office regardless of race, gender, ethnicity and economic status. There should be no obstacles to voting and no intimidation, corruption, or threats to citizens before or during an election.

Multi-Party Systems:

More than one political party participates in elections and plays a role in government. Multiple-party systems provide the government with different viewpoints on issues and provide voters with a choice of candidates, parties and policies. Countries with only one party are usually dictatorships/autocracies.

Citizen Participation:

Citizen participation in government is more than just a right — it is a responsibility. Participation can take the form of running for office, voting in elections, becoming an informed citizen, debating issues, attending community meetings, paying taxes, serving on a jury and protesting. Citizen participation builds a stronger democracy.

Accountability and Transparency:

Elected and appointed officials are responsible for their actions and are accountable to the people. Officials must make decisions and perform their duties according to the wishes of those they represent, not for themselves. For government to be accountable, the people must be aware of the actions their government is taking. A transparent government holds public meetings and allows citizens to attend. The press and people are kept informed regarding decisions being made.

Independent Judiciary:

Courts and the judicial system are impartial. Judges and the judicial branch are free to act without influence or control from the executive and legislative branches of government. They should also not be corrupt or influenced by other individuals, businesses or political groups.

Political Tolerance:

Society is comprised of people with different cultural backgrounds, who practice different religions, represent different races, have different gender identities or have different sexual orientations. These, and people who belong to different socioeconomic and ethnic groups, all hold unique and valued political views. Democratic societies strive to be politically tolerant, and the rights of minorities and other groups are protected. Those who are not in power must be allowed to organize and share their opinions.

Accepting the Results of Elections:

Free and fair elections have both winners and losers. The losers and their supporters must accept that they have lost an election as democracy depends on the peaceful transfer of power from one party to the next.[i]

Freedom of Press:

For voters to be able to make enlightened decisions, it is of utmost importance that the media is free and diverse and the government does not control it.

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“Countries with more gender equality have better economic growth. Companies with more women leaders perform better. Peace agreements that include women are more durable. Parliaments with more women enact more legislation on key social issues such as health, education, anti-discrimination and child support. The evidence is clear: equality for women means progress for all.”

Ban Ki-moon, Secretary General of United Nations 2007-2017