Session 6: Liberal Democratic Structures

Liberal democracies are nations that typically have high literacy rates, advanced industrial economies, free and competitive elections and guarantee protection of one’s liberties. A point to be noted is that this structure has become more and more popular now, when 25 years ago most of the world fell under the shadow of Marxism that rejected multiparty elections. However, eventually these authoritarian structures fell, and the succeeding governments aspired to strive for a democratic state. But the question arises: why have liberal democracies succeeded? Why do people dislike authoritarian structures? We look at the west for an answer. The western polyarchies are characterized by a diffusion of power, contrary to authoritarian states.

The reason why such governments have succeeded is because their people have experienced authoritarian governments under Marxists where they were deprived of a number of things which capitalism or liberal democracies had to offer. Developing or third world nations also follow the example of the west and demand free and fair elections.

A democratic government can be given to any nation, but not everyone can maintain it. Political scientists work towards making democracies last. Countries encounter serious issues in making democracy work. Self-government, contrary to common opinion, is difficult. Corruption, lack of accountability, law enforcement make countries like Pakistan lack the social and economic standards required by nations to run a fully liberal democratic state. However, many argue that the path to achieving such a state will be achieved through free and fair elections rather than dictatorship.