Democratic Form of Government – Comprehensive Notes

Meaning of Democracy

Democracy is a system in which people elect their representatives through elections to form a government.
“Government of the people, by the people, for the people” is its core principle.

Origin and Development of Democracy

Democracy was not created by a single individual.
It evolved over thousands of years through the ideas of many thinkers.

Drawbacks of Old System (Monarchy)

Kings held absolute power
People had:
No freedom of expression
No religious freedom
Forced labor and unjust taxes
High social inequality

Reasons for the Emergence of Democratic Ideas

Growth of science and rational thinking
Awareness about people's rights
Need for people's participation in governance

Major Revolutions

1. American Revolution (18th Century)
The idea that power should lie with the people emerged
Foundation for electoral democracy

2. French Revolution (1789)
Key principles:
Liberty
Equality
Fraternity
End of monarchy

Global Growth of Democracy

After World War I and II, many empires collapsed
New democratic nations were formed

India:
1947 – Independence
1950 – Constitution came into force
World’s largest democracy

End of Cold War (Late 20th Century)

Rivalry between the United States and the Soviet Union
Collapse of the Soviet Union
Many countries transitioned to democracy

Current State of Democracy (21st Century)

Since 2010, democratic backsliding in many countries
Increase in electoral malpractices
Decline in media freedom
Weakening of judiciary

Decline of Democracy in Some Countries

Hungary (2010) – Electoral authoritarianism
Poland – Reduced judicial independence
Turkey – Centralization of power
Venezuela – Electoral fraud and suppression of opposition

International Organization

International IDEA (1995)
Headquarters: Stockholm (Sweden)
Objectives:
Strengthening democracy
Improving electoral processes

Findings of Global Studies

One-third of the world’s population lives under low-quality electoral conditions
Judiciary and media are losing independence
AI and digital campaigns are influencing elections

Challenges to Indian Democracy

Media pressure
Use of laws against political opponents
Decline in secularism
Vote-buying with money

These affect the quality of democracy

Key Points

Democracy = Rule of the people
Major revolutions:
American Revolution (18th Century)
French Revolution (1789)

India:
1947 – Independence
1950 – Constitution

International IDEA – 1995

Current challenges:
Electoral malpractice
Media control
Money politics

Summary

Democracy evolved from ancient monarchies into a system centered on people's rights and participation.
Today, it faces several global challenges.
Public awareness and strong independent institutions are essential to protect democracy.