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What is Democratization?
Process of incorporating more characteristics of democracy into a political system.
What is Democratic Consolidation?
Strengthening of democracy by maturing election rules, emphasizing separation of powers, and protecting civil liberties.
What is Democratic Backslide?
Government adoption of policies that undermine democratic elections.
What is an illiberal democracy?
Elections exist, but they're not truly competitive.
What is Rule of Law?
Laws are clear, government is open, there's accountability, and justice is accessible.
Define Government Transparency.
Policies and procedures are open, with due process, accountability, and transparency.
What are Competitive Elections?
Multiple parties have a real chance of winning; not just a one-party show.
What are Free and Fair Elections?
Elections where everyone eligible can vote, and votes are counted accurately.
What is an Independent Judiciary?
A court system that is not controlled by other branches of government.
What are Political and Civil Rights?
All citizens possess fundamental rights and liberties.
What is the role of independent election committees?
Reduce fraud in elections.
What is the role of the Supreme Court in Mexico?
Review the Constitutionality of laws.
What is the role of the Guardian Council in Iran?
Appointed by the Supreme Leader and directly and indirectly appoints all members.
What is the role of the House of Commons in the UK?
Directly elected by the public, can vote against the PM.
What is the role of national courts in Mexico and Nigeria?
Protect rights, but face challenges.
What is the role of the national legislature in Russia?
Merely a rubber stamp for expansion of Executive Power.
What is the role of the President in China?
Controls the branches of government, limiting real checks and balances.
What is the role of the legislature in Nigeria?
Directly elected by the people and can reject the President’s bids.
What is the role of the Supreme Leader in Iran?
Not directly elected by the people, but appoints members of the Guardian Council.
What is the role of the judiciary in an established democracy?
To provide checks and balances on the other branches of government.
What is the effect of poverty on democratization?
Cause: Poverty. Effect: Hinders democracy by limiting participation.
What is the effect of corruption on democratization?
Cause: Corruption. Effect: Damages democracy, but a strong judiciary can help control it.
What was the effect of Mexico's PRI losing the presidential election in 2000?
Cause: PRI lost election. Effect: Relinquished power, indicating democratization.
What is the effect of a non-independent judiciary on a country?
Cause: Non-independent judiciary. Effect: Undermines rule of law and democratic processes.
What is the effect of restricting internet access on a country?
Cause: Restricting internet access. Effect: Limits dissent and hinders democratization.
What is the effect of gender/cultural quotas on elections?
Cause: Gender/cultural quotas. Effect: Increased inclusion in elections.
What is the effect of proportional representation on elections?
Cause: Proportional representation. Effect: Seats based on votes, increasing representation.
What is the effect of establishing independent election committees?
Cause: Independent election committees. Effect: Reduces fraud in elections.
What is the effect of national freedom of information acts?
Cause: National freedom of information acts. Effect: Increased government accountability.
What is the effect of maturing election rules?
Cause: Maturing election rules. Effect: Democratic consolidation.