Democratic states are political systems where power is vested in the people and exercised through free and fair elections. The government is accountable to its citizens, and individual rights and freedoms are protected.
Related terms
Separation of powers: A principle that divides governmental responsibilities among different branches (e.g., executive, legislative, judicial) to prevent concentration of power.
Rule of law: The principle that all individuals and institutions must adhere to laws that apply equally and fairly to maintain order within democratic states.
Pluralism: Refers to societies with diverse beliefs and values where multiple interest groups coexist peacefully and compete for influence within the political system.