Democracy is a Governing System Involving the People, Understand the Characteristics and Types

Kapanlagi.com - In the realm of nation and state, we are familiar with the term democracy. The word democracy is closely related to the implementation of governance. Democracy is one of the governing mechanisms adopted in Indonesia. This is because there are various types of governing mechanisms, and each country can implement different systems.

As a democratic country, the Indonesian government must always involve its people in governance. Democracy provides a space for every citizen to participate in the administration of the state. Democracy is a principle or idea that gives freedom of expression to the people in a country.

Democracy is important for every citizen to know. Therefore, to better understand what democracy is, you can read the following summary compiled from various sources.

1. Definition of Democracy

(credit: freepik)

If viewed from the origin of the word, democracy comes from the Greek words "demos" and "kratos". The word "demos" means people, while "kratos" means governance. This means that democracy is a system of government that cannot be separated from the role of the people. Furthermore, there is also an understanding that democracy is a system of government implemented by the people, for the people, and of the people.

Meanwhile, in the Indonesian Dictionary (KBBI), the meaning of the word democracy is the idea or way of life that prioritizes equality of rights and obligations as well as equal treatment for all citizens. This means that democracy provides a space of freedom for citizens to express their opinions and participate in governance.

In addition to the origin of the word and its meaning in the dictionary, several experts also express their opinions about democracy. Here are some opinions of experts regarding democracy.

1. Abraham Lincoln
Abraham Lincoln believes that democracy is a system of government carried out by the people, for the people, and of the people.

2. Samuel Huntington
Samuel Huntington argues that democracy will occur when the strongest collective decision makers are chosen through fair, honest, and periodic elections. In this election system, candidates are also free to compete for as many votes as possible.

3.Hans Kelsen
Democracy according to Hans Kelsen is government by the people and for the people. The implementation of the state is in the hands of elected representatives of the people. In addition, the people are also convinced that every will and interest will receive attention and priority in the administration of the state.

2. Principles of Democracy

(credit: freepik)

As mentioned earlier, democracy is not only seen as a system. Democracy is also often considered as a principle held by a country in governing. Therefore, in democracy, there are also known principles. The principles of democracy are as follows.

1. Impartial and independent judicial system
The government should not intervene in the judicial process. This is because a democratic government adheres to an independent judiciary. Therefore, every issue must be viewed objectively and resolved fairly.

2. The Country Adheres to the Law
In carrying out the administration of the country, the government must adhere to the constitution. This is because the law is the constitution that serves as the foundation for national life.

3. Guarantee of Human Rights
The guarantee of human rights is an important principle in democracy. The government is obliged to respect human rights and take firm action against violators of human rights.

4. Freedom of Expression is Guaranteed
In addition to human rights, freedom of expression is also important as a principle of democracy. The community must be given the freedom to express their opinions or aspirations.

5. Freedom of the Press is Guaranteed
The guarantee of press freedom is also an important aspect of democracy. The press has the freedom to monitor, supervise, criticize, and provide suggestions to the government.

6. Equal Legal Standing
Democracy also guarantees equal treatment under the law. The law must be enforced strictly and without discrimination.

7. Existence of Government Rotation System
A country that embraces democracy will implement a system of regular government rotation. This is done to prevent possible abuses of power, such as corruption, collusion, and nepotism.

3. Characteristics of Democracy

(credit: freepik)

To determine whether a country adheres to a democratic system, it is not enough to understand its definition alone. In addition to principles, it is also important to know the characteristics of democracy itself. The characteristics of democracy are as follows.

1. The government makes decisions based on the aspirations and interests of the people, not based on the interests of a group, faction, or individual alone.

2. Everything related to the will, interests, and power of the people must be done based on the applicable constitution. In this case, Indonesia adheres to the applicable laws and regulations.

3. Governance is carried out by a representative council elected directly by the people through a general election system.

4. The existence of a party system as a means of implementing democracy. Parties can serve as a medium for conveying the aspirations of the community to the government.

4. Types of Democracy

Democracy is a system of governance that involves direct participation of the people. In its implementation, democracy is divided into several categories based on form, process, and ideology. Here is a brief discussion of these types of democracy.

1. Democracy based on its form is divided into two types: procedural democracy and substantive democracy. Procedural democracy is a democracy where the process of electing leaders is done directly, such as in presidential or regional elections. On the other hand, substantive democracy is a democracy that applies democratic values to protect minorities and freedom of expression.

2. Based on ideology, democracy is divided into three types: social democracy, liberal democracy, and Pancasila democracy. Social democracy is a democracy based on the concept of communalism of the people. Liberal democracy is a democratic principle based on individual freedom. Meanwhile, Pancasila democracy is a democracy based on Pancasila values.

3. Based on its process, democracy is divided into two types: direct and indirect. Direct democracy is a system of democracy that directly involves elements of society in policy formulation. On the other hand, indirect democracy is a system of democracy where policies are formulated by representative institutions.

Those are some discussions about democracy as a system of governance that involves the people. Hopefully, it is beneficial and adds insight.

(kpl/psp)