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Do elections equal democracy?

Do elections equal democracy?. What is Democracy. Democracy describes a system of making rules for a group of people “The rule of the people.” By nature, its a form of government based on the premise that each citizen is politically equal

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Do elections equal democracy?

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  1. Do elections equal democracy?

  2. What is Democracy • Democracy describes a system of making rules for a group of people • “The rule of the people.” • By nature, its a form of government based on the premise that each citizen is politically equal • No class of people have the right to govern, everybody has the same freedom, rights and liberties

  3. Democracy = Elections • Referendums in direct democracies • Switzerland • Anyone can vote about anything • Consensus decision making • Reminiscent of the ancient Greek system • Anyone can discuss about anything until a common consensus is reached • Because all these processes are long, it results in the participation of genuinely interested people

  4. Democracy = Elections • Lottery Elections • Deep belief that officials are given equal chances to succeed • It was irrelevant whether or not a particular candidate had more support or financial backing • Wealth was immaterial • Equality for all citizens • Add more if you want…

  5. Democracy not = Elections • Show Elections could be held • “Single Candidate” show elections • Only one candidate; no alternative choices for voters to vote beyond this one candidate • “Fixed Vote” show election • Offers several candidates • Government uses intimidation or vote rigging to ensure high ‘yes’ vote • Or, only government approved candidates are chosen • Example: Iraq, when Saddam Hussein was still in power

  6. Democracy not = Elections • “False Diversity” show election • Several choices available that ALL supports the status quo • Government controls media • Where most voters are informed • Eg. 2004 re-election of Russian president Vladimir Putin • State controlled media and condemned oppositions • Virtually unlimited free advertising for Putin’s campaigning • Opposition parties not given access to radio, newspaper and television coverage • Media becomes biased

  7. Democracy not = Elections • Opposition parties do not enjoy rights to freedom of speech/movement/assembly to voice opinions to voters • Politicians are harassed ; events organised by them are disrupted • Eg. Zimbabwe (history of political violence and unfair elections) • Since campaigning requires good financial support, wealthy people given better chances • Rich people who lack principles are favoured by media • Wins and overpowers candidates who are poorer but more honest • Add more if you want…

  8. Conclusion • Supports more that democracy does not equal elections

  9. The End • Done by: • Andre • Jie Yong • Joyce • Kuan Yee • To add: benedict….? HAHA.

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