ABSTRACT
In the study of democratic trends in the world, it is now generally agreed that a distinction needs to be made between ‘mere’ electoral democracy and a more substantial form of ‘liberal democracy’. According to Diamond,
[in] a liberal democracy, elected officials have power as well as authority, and the military and police are subordinate to them. The rule of law is upheld by an independent, and respected, judiciary. As a result, citizens have political and legal equality, state officials are themselves subject to the law, and individual and group liberties are respected. Newspapers and electronic media are free to report and comment, and to expose wrongdoing. Minority groups can practice their culture, their faith, and their beliefs without fear of victimization. Executive power is constrained by other governmental actors. Property rights are protected by law and by courts. Corruption is punished and deterred by autonomous, effective means of monitoring and enforcement.
