Values, principles and bases of democracy
The democratic political system is characterised by values, principles, institutions practices and a culture as well as other aspects that constitute its foundation. These characteristics are explicit for most of them: liberty, equality, free, fair and transparent elections, separation of powers etc... There are, however, "latent" aspects of democracy, unwritten laws in the form of "rules of the game" to be respected (accepting electoral defeat, avoiding violence, etc.)
Values of democracy
Democracy is characterised by two essential values: liberty and equality. These values are enshrined in all declarations of rights: that of 1789 or 1948. Other values may be added, such as: tolerance, respect, cooperation, pluralism and social compromise, accepting differences, solidarity, peace etc...
Principles of democracy
- Voting and universal suffrage, which is supposed to give every person equal opportunity to influence the way important decisions, should be taken.
- People's sovereignty: citizens have the power and they hold government accountable.
- Majority rule and minority rights: power is exercised by the majority, but the rights of the minority must be protected.
- Constitutionality: powers and limitations to government power are enshrined in the Constitution, which protects the rights of all citizens. It is necessary to conduct a Review of the constitutionality of laws to ensure respect of constitutional provisions.
- Separation of powers (legislature, executive and judiciary): the lawmaker (legislature or parliament) cannot be the same as the law enforcer (executive or government); a third separate power is necessary to judge the proper application of laws (judiciary).
- Justice and impartiality: government decisions must be fair and impartial.
- An independent judiciary: the judicial system must be fair and separated from other government institutions.
- Open and free exchange of ideas: the right to freedom of speech, press freedom, freedom of expression, freedom of association.
- Subjecting the armed forces to civilian authority: Since military officers are not elected, the military must be under civilian administration.
- Political pluralism and free and fair elections: multi-party elections are free, open and transparent.
- General welfare: promoting what is good for the entire society.
- Participation: citizens participate freely in civil life.
- Rule of law: public authorities are subject to law, thus limiting their powers. All decisions must, therefore, be in line with the Constitution, international commitments and with laws and regulations.
- Transfer of power: it is desirable, in democracy, that public affairs be managed by different political groupings.
- Control by citizens: citizens must have the right to ascertain by themselves (or by their representatives) "the need for public contribution (...) and to follow up on this process", and for the society as a whole to have the right to "demand accountability from all public officers for their stewardship"[1][1] to enable them play their watchdog role and exercise their warning function.
- Etc.