The development of democratic states

Development of Democratic States

General Overview

Democracy’s evolution mirrors the socio-political changes in the world from the 1800s to the 2000s.
It recognises that the citizens hold the political power either directly or through elected representatives.
Democracy, in its various forms and applications, pervades regions and cultures around the globe with varying degrees of success and longevity.

Democratic Developments in the 19th Century

Significant reforms like the Reform Act of 1867 and the Representation of the People Act of 1884 in the UK expanded the suffrage, eventually reaching almost all men by the end of the century.
The Meiji Restoration in Japan (1868) saw the end of the feudal Shogunate and the dawn of a constitutionally-monarchic government with a bicameral Parliament.

Democracy in the 20th Century

Women’s suffrage became a reality in many parts, starting with New Zealand in 1893, followed by countries like Australia, Finland, and the USA.
The decolonisation period post-World War II saw the emergence of many new independent nations, many of which adopted democratic systems.
The United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948 aimed to safeguard democratic liberties and principles globally.
Many Latin American countries made the transition to democracy in the second half of the 20th century.

Democracy at the close of the 20th Century

The end of the Cold War period saw the dissolution of the Soviet Union and the fall of many authoritarian regimes, leading to the spread of democracy in Central and Eastern Europe.
The Fourth Wave of Democratization, coined by Huntington, began with the Portuguese Revolution in 1974 and includes the democratisation of several countries in Asia, Africa, and Latin America.
Despite some obstacles, democracy has been the preferred system of governance globally by the end of the 20th century.

Challenges Faced by Democracies

Democracies often grapple with issues of governance, representation, and inclusivity. These challenges require continuous commitment to democratic principles and reforms.
Corruption, economic disparity, and threats to national security often pose challenges to democracy.
Balancing democratic principles with cultural traditions, economic development needs, and security priorities is an ongoing task.

Significant Democratic Movements

The anti-apartheid movement in South Africa, led by Nelson Mandela, resulted in the institution of a democratic political system by 1994.
In India, the largest democracy in the world, the struggle for independence led by Mahatma Gandhi, and later leaders, ensured a strong democratic framework post-independence.