The term 'Democracy' comes from the Greek words 'demos' meaning 'people' and 'kratos' meaning 'rule'. Thus democracy is Rule by People. Its ancient concept and practice was in Ancient Greece, while its concept and practice in the Modern period evolved in Britain. Democracy spread to different countries of the world from the beginning of the Twentieth century.
1. Characteristics of Democracy
- Rests on the principles of majority rule, along with individual and minority rights.
- People have the right to make demands on the Government they elected; the Government has the duty to be accessible and responsive to their needs.
- Protects basic Human Rights: Equality before Law, Equal Protection before Law, Freedom of Speech, Freedom of Religion, and the right to organise and participate fully in political, economic and cultural life.
- Conducts regular free and fair elections open to all citizens.
- Power and civic responsibility are exercised by all citizens, directly or through their freely elected representatives.