Democratic governance is a system of government where institutions operate according to democratic processes and norms, ensuring political pluralism, institutional accountability, transparency, and responsiveness to citizens
. It goes beyond just holding elections to include the separation of powers, rule of law, respect for human rights, and the active participation of civil society, including women and minorities, in political life
. Key features of democratic governance include:
- Functioning democratic institutions at national, regional, and local levels that are trusted, transparent, and accessible
- A political culture that embraces pluralism, allowing multiple political parties to compete fairly and contribute to governance
- Accountability mechanisms that prevent abuse of state resources and ensure government responsiveness to the people
- Broad political participation and inclusion, including marginalized groups, supported by civil society and independent media
- The rule of law and protection of fundamental freedoms such as freedom of opinion, expression, and access to information
- Sustainable governance practices that promote social justice, equity, and inclusive development
Democratic governance also involves continuous efforts to strengthen parliaments, develop multiparty systems, and foster citizen engagement in political decision-making to build trust and legitimacy in government
. In summary, democratic governance is about how power is exercised and interests are managed in a way that respects democratic principles, promotes participation, transparency, accountability, and protects human rights, ensuring that the state serves all its citizens effectively
