The Democratic Charter defines the essential elements of representative democracy in very specific terms, including: respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms; holding free and fair elections; a pluralistic system of political parties and organizations; separation of powers; independence of the branches of
The word democracy comes from the Greek words "demos", meaning people, and "kratos" meaning power; so democracy can be thought of as "power of the people": a way of governing which depends on the will of the people.
Firstly, there must be a free and fair electoral process where citizens have the opportunity to vote for their preferred candidate or party.
This means that there should be no intimidation, coercion, or manipulation of voters, and that everyone has an equal chance to participate in the electoral process.