Democracy means rule by the people, a system of politics that allows citizens to collectively decide who should govern them and how. It involves a set of fundamental principles: inclusiveness, popular control and considered judgement; free speech and association; free movement and freedom to believe; and independent institutions that prevent corruption, repression or war.

Democracy requires much more than electoral institutions: a vibrant civil society and a character of individual initiative, where people participate in community life in many ways, including volunteering; an educational system that encourages discussion and debate and teaches the skills of forming informed opinions; a commitment to the free circulation of information; and a sense of shared ownership of democratic processes. It also entails a deep respect for the rights of others, whether or not they share one’s beliefs; and a willingness to compromise and work together for the good of all.

Defending democracy is an ongoing task, but it must go beyond opposing backsliding to what is wrong. It must include a positive, future-oriented programme to reform. Often, this is not easy when groups that oppose backsliding attach different values to democracy and cannot unite around an agenda.

The etymology of the word ‘democracy’ hints at the urgency of these tasks: it derives from the Greek words demos (people) and kratos (rule). Yet the concept remains in many ways misunderstood, even by those who profess to support it. The challenge is to understand how democracy can be established and sustained – especially in the face of rising polarization and a growing suspicion of government.