The word “Democracy” is derived from Greek word “demokratia” (‘demos’ means ‘people’ and ‘kratos’ means ‘rule’). Thus, democracy refers the system of government in which the government and its representatives are elected and selected by the people of the state. In democracy, people elect their rulers through fierce elections. Democracy guarantees of civil autonomy and human rights. It means bridging the distances between rich and poor, eliminating the discrimination, racism and sectarian differences among the masses. At the present era, it is the most favorite and justifiable form of government. Magna Carta formulated democracy, for the first time, in British.
Presently, India is the largest Parliamentary democracy country and America is the largest Presidential democracy in the world. Pakistan is also a democratic country. But it has never been successful in Pakistan because military has always intervened in the political and administrative system of Pakistan.
According to words of Abraham Lincoln:
“Democracy is the government of the people, by the people, and for the people.”
According to Woodrow Wilson:
“Democracy realizes the energies of every human being.”
Democracy is a Public Kind of Government:
No doubt, it is a public kind of government. Nations and countries all over the world widely like and accept it because everyone, from a layman to a lord, participates in it. It is a political setup approved by the voters.
Democracy in Islam:
It is not only a western phenomenon but it is also mentioned and explained in Islam. Islamic religion teaches us to hold mutual consultations and then take a final decision, which is democracy. It is based upon the conviction that there are remarkable possibilities in common people.
Advantages:
People like democracy for its favorable benefits and features. It hampers the way of cruel monarchs as through it people themselves choose their leaders. Furthermore, it brings the prosperity and progress in the country. It promotes political cultures and national values. Moreover, it is also indirectly helpful in preventing the wars as nations by it try to resolve disputes through debates and dialogues. It fosters human development and health, generates good opportunities for education and occupations. It strives to amplify facilities.
Thanks to it, people know the power of their votes. It also preserves the fundamental rights and interests of people.
Disadvantages:
There are also the negative side of this picture. People with greater resources and power win the election and come into force. Democracy is very hazardous when majority of corrupt and dishonest people come to power. They squander their powers and authority.
- How to improve our democratic system? The answer is, by strengthening the election system and making it transparent.
