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Democracy in Focus: Important features and challenges highlighted!
Find out more about the basics of democracy, democratic types and current developments at UNI Oldenburg.
Democracy in Focus: Important features and challenges highlighted!
On May 9, 2025, the meaning of democracy will be discussed worldwide, shaped by the central principle that, according to Article 20, Paragraph 2 of the Basic Law, “all state power emanates from the people”. This maxim places the rule of the people in the foreground and marks an essential feature of democratic systems. At its core, a democracy aims to give equal consideration to the interests and wishes of all citizens.
The US political scientist Robert Dahl has clearly defined the dimensions of real democracies: On the one hand, there is lively competition for power, in which different parties make different offers. On the other hand, inclusivity is crucial because all citizens should have the opportunity to participate.
Characteristics of liberal democracies
According to the findings from a Lecture at the TU Dresden Several characteristics of liberal democracies can be identified. These include popular sovereignty, separation of powers and the rule of law. A constitution that defines the rights and obligations of government, as well as fundamental respect for human and fundamental rights, is essential. Every functioning democracy also needs free media and a pluralistic approach that includes the various social groups in forming opinions.
These characteristics are in the context of the performance and requirements of democracies. The discussion on these topics at TU Dresden also addresses the differences between autocracy and democracy and asks about the criteria that lead to the stability and consolidation of democracies.
Dimensions and concepts of democracy
The concept of democracy is interpreted in different conceptions. A minimalist concept sees democracy as competition between elites and the participation of citizens. In contrast, the concept of strong democracy calls for direct self-government by citizens. The radical approach also attaches great importance to the element of direct participation.
In addition, indicators such as the rule of law, freedom of expression and citizen participation offer crucial criteria for assessing the quality and consolidation of democracies. Critical perspectives raise questions about ideal-type democracy and consider the gradations as described by Wolfgang Merkel. A distinction is made between different types, including defective, excellent and hybrid democracies.
Statistics show the global challenges: Loud Bertelsmann Transformation Index In 2008, only 75 states met the basic requirements for a constitutional democracy. As a result, the majority of the world's population lives in either undemocratic or semi-free conditions.
It remains to be noted that the strength of democracies lies in their ability to promote legitimacy, facilitate peaceful changes of government and create a predictable environment. Thanks to the thematic debate at educational institutions, it becomes clear that the challenges for democracies do not end but continually require new perspectives.