HINTS:
A democratic government is a government that sustains itself through public opinion which is expressed through the medium of elections. Electoral democracy has played a significant role in augmenting the participation of people in the democratic process. Here are some ways in which it has done so:
Universal Suffrage: The introduction of universal suffrage, which allows all citizens of a country to vote regardless of their gender, ethnicity, or social status, has greatly increased the participation of people in the democratic process. When everyone has the right to vote, more people are likely to feel included in the process and to have a say in the decisions that affect their lives.
Political Parties: Political parties provide a platform for citizens to participate in the democratic process by allowing them to join a party, voice their opinions and campaign for the party’s candidates. This creates a sense of ownership and participation in the democratic process.
Free and Fair Elections: The conduct of free and fair elections is a key feature of electoral democracy. When elections are conducted in a transparent and unbiased manner, people have more faith in the democratic process and are more likely to participate. This also ensures that everyone’s voice is heard, regardless of their social or economic status.
Increased Civic Awareness: The democratic process encourages civic awareness and engagement. When citizens are encouraged to participate in the democratic process, they become more aware of the issues affecting their community and country. This, in turn, leads to increased engagement and participation in the democratic process.
Democratic Institutions: Electoral democracy also requires the establishment of democratic institutions that promote accountability, transparency, and the rule of law. This creates an environment where people feel that their voices are being heard and their concerns are being addressed.
Electoral democracy has significantly augmented the participation of people in the democratic process. It has allowed citizens to exercise their right to vote, participate in political parties, and engage in civic awareness. It has also created an environment of accountability and transparency, which has increased people’s trust in the democratic process.