DEMOCRACY AND PARTICIPATION

Question 1

Features of a Liberal Democracy

Answer 1

• Rule of Law
• Independent Judiciary
• Fair Elections
• Free Elections
• Freedom of Expression and Political Information
• A constitution
• Freedom of Association
• Protection of Rights and Liberties
• Widespread Political Participation
• Peaceful Transition to Power

Question 2

Peaceful Transition to Power

Answer 2

• Often taken for granted.
• Those who lose power by democratic means accept the authority of those who won from the “voice of the people”
• If they do not, politics and society break down.
• Helps ensure democracy can hold government to account and ensures the legitimacy of those who won.

Question 3

FREE ELECTIONS

Answer 3

• Without free electons, it would be impossible for democracy to function properly as it’s main way for the people’s voices to be heard.
• “Free” means all adults are free to vote and to stand for office.
• Universal Suffrage.
• Shouldn’t discriminate against anyone.
• Elections need to be free so everyone can exercise their right to vote without fear/threat.
• Can be done through a secret ballot.
• If a vote was not secret, votes can be bought and sold and voters can be coerced into voting a certain way.

Question 4

Fair Elections

Answer 4

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