Challenges in Global Elections
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Questions and Answers

What does the term 'moneybags' signify in the context of the elections described?

It signifies the influence of financial resources on political campaigns, often leading to unfair advantages.

What challenges are presented to voters in the case of polling booth relocations?

Voters face difficulties in casting their votes due to unexpected changes in polling locations.

How can the concept of 'one person, one vote, one value' be contradicted in certain election contexts?

This principle can be undermined when voters have no real choice among candidates or when external factors distort the voting process.

In what ways did the elections in China limit voter choice?

<p>Elections in China limit choice by restricting voters to the ruling party and its approved candidates.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was a significant limitation to voting rights in Saudi Arabia until 2015?

<p>Until 2015, women in Saudi Arabia did not have the right to vote.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What implication does the existence of a dominant ruling party have on electoral fairness?

<p>A dominant ruling party suggests that elections are not genuinely competitive, undermining their fairness.</p> Signup and view all the answers

In what way do the citizenship rules in Estonia represent a challenge to voting rights?

<p>Estonia's citizenship rules make it difficult for Russian minority citizens to obtain voting rights.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are some perceived inadequacies of democracy as mentioned in the content?

<p>Democracy can lead to bad decisions due to elected leaders not knowing the best interests of the people and the potential for corruption.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How did India's democratic response to food scarcity differ from China's during the same period?

<p>India's democracy allowed for a response to food scarcity, which prevented large-scale famine, unlike China, which did not address the issue effectively.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What argument is made regarding the effectiveness of democracy in addressing poverty?

<p>Democracy is noted not to be a magical solution for poverty, as it has not eliminated poverty in India or other parts of the world.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role does democracy play in managing societal differences and conflicts?

<p>Democracy provides a method to handle differences and conflicts that inevitably arise in a diverse society.</p> Signup and view all the answers

In what ways can the criticisms of democracy apply to other forms of government?

<p>Criticisms like poor decision-making and corruption can apply to any form of government, not just democratic ones.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary method used by Robert Mugabe to maintain power in Zimbabwe?

<p>He used unfair practices in elections.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How did Mugabe's government alter the constitution to benefit his rule?

<p>It changed the constitution to increase presidential powers and reduce accountability.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the example of Zimbabwe illustrate about the relationship between popular approval and democracy?

<p>It shows that popular approval is necessary but not sufficient for democracy.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What characterized the political climate for opposition parties before elections in Zimbabwe?

<p>Opposition party workers were harassed and their meetings disrupted.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What principle does the King of Bhutan's decision to be guided by elected representatives exemplify?

<p>Rule of law</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to examine political activities before and after elections?

<p>It helps assess the overall health of democracy beyond just electoral outcomes.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was a significant issue faced by Tamil workers who migrated to Sri Lanka?

<p>They were not given a right to vote.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was one significant event that led to Mugabe being forced out of office?

<p>He was forced out of office in 2017.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What must a democratic government respect even after winning an election?

<p>Basic rules and constitutional guarantees to the minorities.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the content suggest about Robert Mugabe's popularity?

<p>He was popular, despite his undemocratic practices.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What democratic principle is violated when a king imposes a ban on political gatherings?

<p>Free and fair electoral competition</p> Signup and view all the answers

How frequently were elections held during Mugabe's rule?

<p>Elections were held regularly.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What crucial decision did the Indian Supreme Court make regarding the Bihar assembly?

<p>The dissolution of the assembly was declared unconstitutional.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Name one responsibility of an elected office bearer in a democracy.

<p>To be accountable to the people and to other independent officials.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What agreement have political parties in Bangladesh reached concerning elections?

<p>A neutral government should rule during elections.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the impact of Mugabe's policies on normal political activities in Zimbabwe?

<p>They restricted normal political activities and suppressed opposition.</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a democratic government, what is essential for citizens in terms of elections?

<p>Elections must offer a choice and fair opportunity for the people.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What argument did Madam Lyngdoh present about democracy in her class?

<p>She questioned if democracy is the best form of government.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of decisions going through a series of consultations in democracy?

<p>It ensures inclusiveness and consideration of diverse opinions.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does constitutional law limit a democratic government?

<p>It enforces limits on the government's powers, ensuring it operates within defined rules.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What criticism did students express regarding democracy during their debate?

<p>They believed democracy leads to chaos, instability, and corruption.</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the debate, what alternative to democracy did students jokingly suggest?

<p>Going back to British rule or inviting kings to rule.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does it mean for citizens' rights to be on an equal basis in a democracy?

<p>Every citizen should have the same opportunity to participate in the democratic process.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Identify one feature of democracy that relates to rulers.

<p>Rulers are elected by the people and must take all major decisions.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What argument does Poimon make regarding governance alternatives?

<p>He questions whether it would be better to revert to colonial rule.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What historical event does the mention of tanks and an unarmed student represent in the context of democracy?

<p>The Tiananmen Square protests in China.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What value is expressed by the principle of 'one person, one vote'?

<p>It ensures equal representation in the electoral process.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important for every major decision in a democracy to go through consultations?

<p>To ensure transparency and inclusive decision-making.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role do independent officials play in a democratic government?

<p>They help hold elected representatives accountable to the people.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Universal Adult Franchise

A system where all adult citizens have the right to vote and their votes have equal value, regardless of their social status, ethnicity, gender, or any other factor.

Free and Fair Elections

A type of election where voters have a genuine choice between different candidates and parties, and the outcome is determined by the free will of the people. This entails a fair and transparent electoral system.

Rigged Elections

A situation where the outcome of an election is predetermined, regardless of the people's preferences. This could be due to manipulation, intimidation, or unfair rules that favor a specific candidate or party.

One-Party State

A system where only one party holds power, and the people have limited or no choice in selecting their leaders. This often involves suppressing opposition and limiting freedom of expression.

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Uneven Playing Field

A system where there are multiple political groups vying for power, but the rules and practices unfairly benefit a certain party or group, hindering the ability of other parties to compete.

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Electoral Manipulation

Actions taken to manipulate or influence elections. This could include voter intimidation, spreading misinformation, or using money illegally to sway voters.

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Voting

The process of casting a vote to choose a leader or representative. This is the cornerstone of democratic systems, allowing citizens to participate in governance.

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Democracy

A form of government where citizens have the power to choose their leaders through free and fair elections.

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ZANU-PF

A political party in Zimbabwe that has been in power since independence.

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Robert Mugabe

The leader of ZANU-PF and President of Zimbabwe from independence until 2017.

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Unfair Practices

Practices that are not fair or just, often used by powerful people to gain an advantage.

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Constitution

The set of rules that govern a country or organization.

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Accountability

The ability of someone to be held responsible for their actions.

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Opposition Party

Groups or individuals who oppose the ruling party or government.

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Public Protests

The right of people to express their opinions and concerns publicly.

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Autocracy

A system where a leader has complete or almost complete control, ignoring the will of the people.

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Limited Government

A government that operates within limits set by the constitution and citizens' rights.

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Consultation and Discussion

Decisions in a democratic government must go through a process of consultation and discussion, ensuring diverse viewpoints are heard.

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Rule of Law

The principle that everyone is subject to the same laws, regardless of their position or power. This ensures fairness and prevents the abuse of authority.

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One Person, One Vote

The right of all citizens to have their voice heard and their vote counted equally in elections.

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Freedom of Expression

The ability for citizens to peacefully express their opinions and participate in political activities without fear of reprisal.

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Political Participation

The right of individuals to participate in the political process, including voting, running for office, and forming political groups.

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Electoral Commission

A neutral body that oversees the electoral process and ensures fair and credible elections.

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Study Notes

Overview of Democracy

  • Democracy is the prevalent form of government globally, expanding to more countries.
  • It aims to define democracy, distinguishing it from non-democratic governments.
  • It explores the features and reasons for its prevalence.

What is Democracy?

  • Democracy is a system of government where rulers are chosen by the people.
  • A key characteristic is "rule by the people."
  • Democracy is derived from the Greek words "demos," meaning "people," and "kratia," meaning "rule."
  • This simple definition is insufficient, requiring further understanding of the details.

Features of Democracy

  • Rulers are chosen by the people.
  • Elections provide a choice to change rulers.
  • All citizens have equal voting power.
  • The government operates within constitutional limits and respects citizens' rights.

Why Democracy?

  • Democracies usually respond effectively to the needs of the people.
  • They involve consultation and thus lead to better decisions than non-democratic systems.
  • Democracies often resolve conflicts peacefully due to inclusivity and regard for citizens' rights.
  • Democracies promote dignity and better outcomes than other forms of governments.

Arguments Against Democracy

  • Instability due to frequent leadership changes.
  • Political competition and power struggles, with potentially minimal regard to societal well-being.
  • Delays because many people are involved.
  • Elected officials may not always act in the best interests of the people.
  • Potential for corruption.
  • Ordinary people may lack understanding of crucial issues.

Broader Meanings of Democracy

  • Democracy extends beyond governmental structures.
  • It includes decision-making processes within families, organizations, etc.
  • Democracy involves consent from everyone affected by a decision.
  • These broader dimensions highlight the importance of democratic principles regardless of the form of government.

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Description

This quiz explores various challenges and limitations present in global electoral processes, focusing on how political systems affect voting rights and democratic principles. Questions cover topics such as voter choice in China, the implications of a dominant party, and the effectiveness of democracy in addressing societal issues.

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