In the previous blogs, ‘Democracy A Responsibility: Part 1 ’ and ‘Democracy A Responsibility: Part 2’, we saw the definition and understanding of democracy, the basic to advanced requirements to continue democracy, and the relationship of democracy with freedom in every aspect of life. We also saw essential elements of democracy that, if we do not follow, will create terrible trouble in the lives of every citizen. I request that you read both blogs thoroughly.
In this blog, ‘Democracy: A Responsibility—Part 3,’ we will elaborate on the need for and requirements for maintaining democracy. But before we begin, this blog is in addition to what is left in the blogs mentioned above. So, to enjoy and understand what’s going on here, you must know about these blogs first.
If you don’t know the importance of democracy, then seriously, you must study the environment in a few countries like North Korea, Libya, and Venezuela. Even though China claims to be a democratic country, everything is being tracked there: your faces in public places, your devices, your bank accounts, the work you do, the property you possess, and the comments you post on social media.
Responsibilities of Citizens in a Democracy
Promote Inclusivity
A healthy democracy is inclusive and representative of all citizens. Individuals should advocate for the rights of marginalised groups and ensure their voices are heard. Promoting inclusivity fosters a sense of belonging and strengthens the democratic process. Citizens can support initiatives that aim to increase representation and participation among underrepresented communities.
Consequences – The most significant disadvantage of non-inclusivity and non-support for marginalised groups and minorities is that religious powers take advantage and provide the same support they need and convert the minorities to their religion. This has happened in India on a mass scale. There are a lot of controversial stories written in the books, in the news and on the social media.
If the government or citizens of that country do not provide what minorities want, they will catch other sources that will fulfil their requirements, and then they will be forced to accept the terms and conditions of such sources.
For example, if you want to take a loan, the finance provider will impose the rules, not you. Then, you may or may not have the choice but to accept it. Mostly, when we see every financial institution imposing the same rule, you do not have a choice but to accept it. In the same way, minorities or tribals get whatever they want freely, then they are exposed to being converted or doing such illegal activities that harm the country, society and themselves.
Solution – Various organizations, governments, and high-net-worth individuals (HNI) must provide humanitarian aid and financial support and meet legal needs so that they can participate in democracy and feel inclusive. Such a community is vulnerable to committing crimes, becoming rebels, supporting rebels, and carrying foreign agendas. Our efforts are essential before it turns into a nightmare.
Be Informed About Rights and Responsibilities
Citizens must understand their rights and responsibilities within a democracy. This knowledge empowers individuals to advocate for themselves and others. It also helps citizens recognise when their rights are being violated. Educational programs and resources can help individuals learn about their rights and the democratic process.
Honestly, a separate topic must be included in high school and college to explain the rights and duties of citizens in a democracy. Education should consist of law, politics, the constitution of that country, history and its effects on society, mass media and news reporting, etc.
The same organization that can promote inclusivity can also bring education about rights and responsibilities. There is a serious need for such organizations in niche and integral parts of the country, including cities.
Refrain from engaging yourself in money laundering and drug peddling activities
Money laundering and drug peddling or consumption are not only offences but also break your country. Untaxed money or undisclosed income used to avoid tax is called black money. Such black money is sent to various cash transactions to make it white and bring it into the central system.
Running any country requires funding. The primary source of financing is taxes. Other sources include government-owned businesses, loans, and so on. Taxes are the primary source of income, and it is our duty to pay them honestly. A smaller tax means a smaller budget for the country. A smaller budget limits spending on defence. It can become a threat to your own country. Is it ok if your country compromises on defence?
Also, a smaller budget means smaller spending on infrastructure. Is it okay if your country fails to introduce the latest infrastructure? Is it alright if your government fails to produce more jobs, which will later generate more taxes?
Similarly, drugs are killing the youth of your country. A drug peddler’s racket can go to any level to destroy your country. They think drugs are the way to make easy and big money, but the consequences are deadly. If the drug reaches to ordinary people, it destroys their lives. If it doesn’t reach ordinary people and the peddler is caught, the law takes excellent care of them. This includes ‘to hang them till death’.
The drug is another way of money laundering. 100% of the transaction happens in cash. That means there can never be accountability. Once the country’s working class is destroyed, its taxable income is reduced. So, it hits the country in two ways. Because of drugs, the government loses working-class people, thereby reducing the taxable income, per capita income and GDP. Also, drug addicts often go to any extent of crime to get the drugs. So, the crime rate increases. Increasing crime and reduced GDP further shake confidence in the investors’ minds. So, it again impacts private sector jobs and investments, creating more unemployment.
Rights in Democracy
The second point mentioned above concerns the need for awareness of rights and responsibilities; this point will provide information about common rights across all democracies in the world. The standard list is mentioned below –
- Right to Equality
- Right to Freedom
- Freedom of speech
- Freedom of expression
- Freedom of assembly without arms
- Freedom of association
- Freedom to practice any profession
- Right against Exploitation
- Right to Freedom of Religion
- Cultural and Educational Rights
- Right to Constitutional Remedies
Other rights are –
- Rights to live
- Rights for Education
- Right to live in any part of that country
- Rights to speedy public trials by an impartial jury
- Right to sue for a valid reason
- Right for bail on bailable offences
- Right against cruel and unusual punishments
Many countries’ laws mention other rights. Just because those are not mentioned in the constitution doesn’t mean they cease to exist.
Solutions for Encouraging Active Participation
To make sure that citizens fulfil their responsibilities in a democracy, many solutions can be implemented:
Education and Awareness Workshops or Campaigns
Governments and organizations should provide education and awareness campaigns. Campaigns can educate citizens about their rights and responsibilities at the threshold of citizenship and the value of civic participation. Schools must explicitly educate students about civic values and the workings of democratic systems.
Also, as I mentioned above, if various non-profit or other organizations provide such education and run campaigns in different parts of the country, that will help educate people about democracy, rights, and responsibilities.
Accessible Voting
To increase participation, voting must become more accessible. Online voting, longer voting hours, and mail-in ballot options should be implemented. These measures would eliminate barriers that keep citizens from voting.
Simultaneously, citizens enjoy a day off from work by the holiday but do not vote. We outlined above the consequences of not voting. People can vote in the early morning and spend the rest of the holiday celebrating.
Community Engagement Programs
Local governments and communities need to develop engagement programs to educate people about their rights, duties, and the consequences of not adhering to them. These programs can motivate citizens to get out and be involved in civic activities and discussions. Encourage participation through workshops, forums, and volunteer opportunities that promote community involvement.
This will also guard people against religious conversions, crimes, ignorance, and undue advantages by third parties or another country.
Support for Advocacy Groups
Supporting advocacy groups can help amplify citizens’ voices. These organisations often strive to mobilise communities and raise awareness around pertinent issues. Government and private entities can also provide funding and resources to enable these groups to thrive.
Transparency Initiatives
Governments must be transparent about their activities. This can include sharing information about decision-making processes, budgets, and policies. When citizens have such information, they can hold officials accountable and engage more meaningfully and effectively.
Inspire Civic Engagement and Political Involvement
Political parties and organizations have a duty to promote participation. This may include outreach to underrepresented populations and youth voters. By encouraging civic participation, these organizations can help strengthen democracy.
Use of Technology
Technology plays an important role in supporting civic engagement. Social media is proving a highly useful resource for allowing public discourse and rallying citizens around causes. Governments and organizations can use technology to share information and promote participation in democratic processes.
Conclusion
Democracy is not merely a status of government but a collective endeavor. Democracy requires active participation; without it, a democracy cannot survive. Individuals can contribute to a vibrant democratic society by educating themselves, voting, advocating for change, and holding officials accountable.
Fostering a culture of active participation requires collective effort. Education, accessibility, and community engagement are crucial parts of this process. The more citizens take on their responsibilities, the better democracy works and flourishes, leading to a more just and equitable society. In the end, the health of a democracy relies on citizens willing to fight for their rights and commitments to their responsibilities.
Remind yourself that external powers are happy to destabilize your nation and sometimes gain access to your information, resources, government, policies, legislation and territory. They also can form a proxy government. What will lead to a much stronger democratic model and the most stringent punishment for disloyal and quislings will encourage and ensure better democracy and freedom in the country.
