What is the problem with democracy.pdf
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The document discusses the criticisms of democracy, noting issues such as low voter turnout, disenfranchisement of certain groups, lengthy decision-making processes, and the lack of informed voting. It highlights the importance of young people's participation in democracy, as they are often ignored by politicians who cater to older voters. Several organizations are mentioned that aim to empower young individuals to have their voices heard and engage actively in political processes.
What is the problem with democracy.pdf
- 1. What is the problem with democracy?
- 2. Democracy is not always perfect and has been criticized for many reasons. Some of the most common complaints about democracy are Only some people exercise their right to vote. In some countries, such as Australia, voting in certain elections is required by law, while other democracies do not.
- 3. In democracies, everyone has the right to vote (from a certain age), but not everyone has the right to vote. For example, in the 2016 US presidential election, only 55% of voting-age citizens voted. Only some have the right to vote. Some democracies have laws that prohibit some people from voting. For example, the National Representation Act of 1983 prohibits convicted people from voting in prison in the United Kingdom.
- 4. Decisions can take a long time. Changing laws and making national decisions must go through various stages of approval before they come into force. It often takes a long time to implement what people want. For example, in the United States, there is an extensive process by which a bill (the first bill before it is passed) must be approved by multiple levels of Government, including government committees, legislators, officials, and the executive branch.
- 5. Only some people who vote are well-informed. Ordinary citizens are asked to vote on substantive issues or who should make decisions, but everyone has the expertise necessary to understand their votes' impact fully. It doesn't mean there is. And, of course, even during election campaigns, politicians often spread misinformation, making it difficult to get enough information. After the vote, GoogleTrends saw a spike in searches about what would happen if the UK left.
- 6. Why is democracy important for young people? Those who vote help shape the world. Politicians in all countries have a long history of ignoring young people and focusing on policies that benefit older people, as older people are much more likely to vote. In the 2019 UK general election, 74% of those aged 65 and over voted, compared to just 47% of those aged 18-24. Politicians can therefore look at these numbers and decide either:
- 7. Develop policies that benefit 2.6 million people in politics from 18 to 24. Entering politics, he formulates policies that benefit nine million people over. 65. They could choose number two to maximize their chances of winning next time. I hope governments realize that they need to do something. In the United States, England, and Northern Ireland, you must be 18 or older to vote. In Scotland and Wales, 16 can vote (but 18 in UK elections). But in a democracy, you can make your voice heard from a young age. For example:
- 8. In the UK, organizations such as the British Youth Council encourage young people to get involved in issues that affect them. They help people under 25 make a difference locally, nationally, and internationally. Generation Citizen in the US is pursuing a similar approach. Wajid khan says they help young people acquire the skills they need to participate in democracy. The Spanish Youth Council (Consejo de la Juventud de España, CJE) allows young people to participate politically, socially, economically, and actively.