Democracy And Human Rights Flashcards
Define the rule of law
The rule of law means no one is above the law, and everyone is treated equally under it. Laws must be fair, clear, and followed by all — even the government.
Discuss three characteristics of good governance to ensure the country is ruled according to the values set out in our Constitution
- Accountability
Leaders and public officials must take responsibility for their actions and decisions. They should answer to the people and be held responsible if they misuse power or break the law. - Transparency
Government actions and decisions must be open and clear to the public. This helps build trust and prevents corruption, as people can see how and why decisions are made. - Participation
All citizens should have the opportunity to be involved in decision-making, either directly or through representatives. This supports democracy and makes sure that government reflects the will of the people.
Two ways that those in power or authority can ensure that they remain accountable to those they represent
- Regular reporting and communication – Leaders can share updates on their work through meetings, media, or reports, so the public knows what they’re doing and why.
- Listening to feedback and answering questions – They should allow the public to ask questions, give opinions, and hold them responsible for their actions through things like public forums or parliamentary questioning.
Three requirements that must be taken into consideration before a person can vote
- They must be a South African citizen.
- They must be 18 years or older.
- They must be registered to vote on the voters’ roll.
Discuss three factors that will motivate you to vote for a political party of your choice
- Their policies and promises – If a party has clear plans to improve things like education, jobs, and healthcare, it can win support.
- Honesty and leadership – A party with honest, trustworthy leaders who care about the people is more likely to gain votes.
- Track record and experience – If a party has done good work in the past and has experience running the country well, that builds confidence.
Evaluate three disadvantages of legal restrictions applied on voters in the process of elections
- Delays in the voting process – Extra checks and rules can slow things down at voting stations, causing long lines and frustration.
- Confusion and mistakes – Complicated rules can confuse voters, making them fill out forms wrong or go to the wrong station, which can stop them from voting.
- Loss of trust in the system – If people feel the rules are unfair or used to block certain voters, they might stop trusting elections and the government.
Why is transparency and accountability so important in a democratically governed
society?
• Transparency and accountability foster trust between the government and its citizens.
• When the actions, decisions, and processes of the government are open and accessible, citizens are more likely to trust their leaders.
• Through open communication and feedback mechanisms, leaders can understand the priorities of the population and adjust policies accordingly, contributing to effective governance.
• Openness in government operations ensures that decision-making processes
involve multiple stakeholders, reducing the risk of autocratic practices.
What are the advantages of having a democratic government
- Citizens’ Participation – People have the right to vote and influence decisions, ensuring the government reflects the will of the majority.
- Protection of Rights and Freedoms – Democracies protect individual rights, such as freedom of speech, assembly, and religion.
Discuss any THREE values as set out in the Constitution of South Africa that strives to establish good governance.
Rule of Law: The principle of the rule of law is central to good governance. It
ensures that all actions of the government and individuals are subject to the law,
promoting a predictable and fair legal system. This value establishes a framework where everyone, regardless of their position, is accountable under the
law.
• Equality: The Constitution emphasizes the principle of equality, ensuring that everyone is equal before the law and has the right to equal protection and
benefit. This value is fundamental in establishing a just and inclusive society, where discrimination on various grounds, such as race, gender, or religion, is prohibited.
• Human dignity: is a foundational value that recognizes and respects the inherent worth and value of each individual. This principle guides the government and
its institutions in their actions, promoting a governance framework that values and protects the dignity of all citizens.
Define the term ‘democracy’ and briefly explain ONE reason why we needed democracy in South Africa
Democracy is a system of government where power is vested in the people, who elect representatives to make decisions on their behalf.
Why we needed democracy in South Africa:
Democracy was needed to end apartheid, a system of racial segregation and discrimination. It ensured equal rights for all South Africans, regardless of race, and allowed them to participate in choosing their government.
Characteristics of good governance
• allows people to participate and keeps them informed
• is transparent, providing information that is clear and complete
• delivers basic human rights, including the right to health, adequate housing, sufficient food, quality education, social justice and personal security
• is efficient and effective
Define Governance
Governance is the way that a country, city, company or organisation is controlled or managed by the people who run it.
Why is public participation important
• makes sure that leaders do not abuse their powers
• ensures that the public’s needs, concerns and views are taken into account when decisions are made
• helps to inform government about what citizens want and need in their country
• helps to see that things get done
How to participate publicly
• stand for elections
• vote in elections
• hold and attend community meetings
• pay taxes
The two different types of representation
- Proportional representation (PR) – Seats in Parliament are allocated based on the percentage of votes a party receives. Example: 12% of votes = 12% of seats.
- Constituency-based representation – The country is divided into voting areas (constituencies), and the candidate with the most votes in each area wins a seat in Parliament.
South Africa mainly uses proportional representation in its elections.
South Africa’s democratic structures
- National Government – Led by the President, Cabinet, and Parliament, making laws for the whole country. Citizens can vote, petition, and stand for election.
- Provincial Government – Led by the Premier and MECs, making laws for each province.
- Local Government – Includes metros, districts, and local councils, handling services like water, electricity, and roads. People can join ward committees and attend public meetings.
- Traditional Authorities – Traditional leaders work with local government to support communities.
- Political Parties – Represent people, influence policies, and educate voters. Citizens can vote, join a party, or run for office.
How can an advocacy campaign raise awareness
• organising public meetings to inform people about the issue
• distributing information leaflets
• using the media (e.g. radio, television, internet) to gather public support
• organising petitions
• writing to members of Parliament and local councillors
What is advocacy
Advocacy is the act or process of supporting a cause or proposal
What is lobbying
Lobbying means to try to influence government officials, or any people in a position of power, to make decisions for or against something.
Ways in which people can lobby
• writing letters and emails to people in power
• holding informal talks with committee members and decision-makers over coffee
• organising petitions
• using Facebook and Twitter to gain suppor”
What is a mandate
A mandate is the power to act that voters give to their elected leaders. Acts of law also give mandates”
Types of Local Elections in South Africa
Metropolitan Municipal Elections – Every 5 years, vote for a party and a ward councillor.
Local Municipal Elections – Every 5 years, vote three times (ward councillor, local council party, district council party).
Municipal By-Elections – Held if a ward councillor’s seat becomes vacant.
Community Organisation Elections – Held annually to elect leaders like the chairperson.
