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Student Corner

Democracy in our Context

Written by: Prinsa Shrestha - 25016, Grade XI

Posted on: 26 December, 2023

Introduction: 

Democracy is the political system of government which is formed by the people’s representatives or elected ones. It is the system where the power is in people’s hands. It has given societies and states a hope of freedom and equality. Originally, ‘Demo’ refers to the people whereas ‘cracy’ refers to rule, so together democracy means people’s rule in a country or a state. Democracy empowers peoples and individuals to know about political control even when there is government to rule. It governs the state by the help of politicians chosen by the people’s representative. 

 

Current Situation:

Democracy requires the participation of the people of society in the political process to function everything properly and smoothly. The term ‘Democracy’ was defined in the 5th century BCE. Democracy has many features and strengths too, so it is also known as the best form of government. Today, many countries are practicing democratic systems because of their advantages. In the 21st century, many countries are facing both the challenges and opportunities related to democracy. If we are able to capture the challenges and face the challenges, our country can thrive higher and become a positive example for other countries too.

 

Bright Side of Democracy: 

Democracy has many advantages which helps in contributing to the political and economic development of one’s country. It mainly controls the misuse of power by the government. Democratic system helps in providing equal opportunities to each and every citizen of the country. Participation of people highly increases in political activities. People and citizens get their right to vote, right to express their feelings, right to their freedom and peace, right to justice of people. Elections will be held. The economic development of a country is also related to democracy. It contributes to the prosperity of a nation. The citizens of the country get well aware about their rights and duties. Not only that but the government also should do their duties properly and fairly treat people by listening to their problems, not ignoring their voices. 

 

Dark Side of Democracy:

Even though democracy has many advantages that come with different opportunities, it also has some drawbacks and challenges. Favoritism and Nepotism are the main drawbacks of democracy. It means favoring the people for money and discriminating others. Corruption and  abuse of power is also done at a high rate due to democracy. The money that was used for the development of a nation is taken away just for democratic practices which has resulted in the slow pace of development activities. In the 21st century, there is high misuse of power everywhere like in elections and other political activities. Due to corruption, those people with no leadership skills and knowledge of politics become leaders and lead the nation that results in terms of lack of development.  

 

Conclusion:

Democracy has led to many great outcomes in some places, while it has led to different consequences in other places. Everything that occurs in nature has both pros and cons of its own. Even though it has some bad features, democracy is still the best form of government. Hence, democracy gives the power to govern a state with equal treatment and fairness to all people. However, it also has a hand in corruption and misuse of power and money. Different activities related to awareness should be held. The improvements of democratic practices have been overcoming each and every challenge that has altered the development. Also, it ensures effectiveness in good governance.