democracy

A form of government in which power is held by the people through voting. In its purest form, direct democracy, people vote directly on laws, taxes, and all other decisions, and the majority vote decides.

In a representative democracy, people vote for elected officials to represent them in the process of law-making.

In 2002, the U.N. Commission on Human Rights found 10 elements essential to democracy:

  1. Respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms
  2. Freedom of association
  3. Freedom of expression and opinion
  4. Access to power and its exercise in accordance with the rule of law
  5. The holding of periodic free and fair elections by universal suffrage and by secret ballot as the expression of the will of the people
  6. A pluralistic system of political parties and organizations
  7. The separation of powers
  8. The independence of the judiciary
  9. Transparency and accountability in public administration
  10. Free, independent and pluralistic media

Also see republic.

← Return to Chapter D

User feedback survey

Please take a moment to tell use how you use the OAJ Style and Accessibility Guide.

Open survey
How I describe my profession. (Required)

Select as many as apply.

Where I work. (Required)

Select as many as apply.

How I use the OAJ Style and Accessibility Guide. (Required)

Select as many as apply.

How often I use the OAJ Style and Accessibility Guide. (Required)

Select only one.

Other guides I use. (Required)

Select as many as apply.

The information given within the Feedback Form will be used for service improvement only and are strictly confidential.

Thank you for your participation!

Didn’t find what you need?

Try searching the Style and Accessibility Guide in the box below

Donations build this guide

The Style and Accessibility Guide is built, maintained and free to use because people like you have generously donated to this project. Consider giving $5 a month — or any amount you choose.