World Affairs Journal: Ya-nuking democracy in Ukraine
What’s the condition of democracy in Ukraine after one year of Viktor Yanukovych’s presidency? He and his supporters say democracy is alive and well. His critics say it’s dead or decaying. Who’s right?
Obviously, the answer depends on what you mean by democracy.
Here’s a very short and, I submit, non-controversial list of modern democracy’s minimal features:
(1) A balance of power among the executive, the legislature, and the judiciary.
(2) Rule of law rooted in independent courts and a functioning constitution.
(3) Fair and free elections involving genuine parties.
(4) Freedom of assembly and speech.
Here’s why these features matter. Read the story here.
Obviously, the answer depends on what you mean by democracy.
Here’s a very short and, I submit, non-controversial list of modern democracy’s minimal features:
(1) A balance of power among the executive, the legislature, and the judiciary.
(2) Rule of law rooted in independent courts and a functioning constitution.
(3) Fair and free elections involving genuine parties.
(4) Freedom of assembly and speech.
Here’s why these features matter. Read the story here.
