Liberal democracy

Liberal democracy is a form of representative democracy where the ability of elected representatives to exercise decision-making power is subject to the rule of law and moderated by a constitution which emphasizes the protection of the rights and freedoms of individuals and minorities (also called constitutional liberalism), and which places constraints on the extent to which the will of the majority can be exercised.

Qualities of liberal democracies

Qualities of liberal democracies include:

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• A constitution that limits the authority of the government and protects many civil rights
• Universal suffrage, granting all citizens the right to vote regardless of race, gender or property ownership (See also elective rights)
• Freedom of expression, including speech, assembly and protest
• Freedom of the press and access to alternative information sources
• Freedom of association
• Equality before the law and due process under the rule of law
• The right to private property and privacy
• Educated citizens informed of their rights and civic responsibilities
• A broadly and deeply-entrenched civil society with rule of law
• An independent judiciary, with opportunities for appeal
• A system of checks and balances between branches of government