Evolution Of Democracy Research Articles

Judicial Activism in Pakistan and its Impacts on Tripartite Governance: Lessons from the US Constitutional Construct

The judiciary played a significant role in the evolution of democracy in Pakistan. Throughout history, the military remained at the core of politics and as an avoidable stakeholder influenced the judiciary in validating its extraconstitutional actions. However, after 2009, the judiciary emerged as exceptionally independent invalidating extraconstitutional actions and stretching its authority to take up matters else within the jurisdictional province of the other state organs, resulting in judicial overstretch. Excessive judicial activism had evident adverse impacts on the equilibrium of the state organs, imposed financial liabilities, and compromised its dignity. By employing qualitative research methodology, this article considers the judiciary as a double-edged weapon and critically examines the cases where the judiciary deviated from the international treaty obligations, leaving the fragile economy of Pakistan to a blow of penalties. Lastly, the research contributes to what Pakistan can learn from the US Constitutional construct.

The Evolution of Democracy: Historical Perspectives and Modern Challenges

The Evolution of Democracy: Historical Perspectives and Modern Challenges

Authoritarization and Resilience of Democratic Evolution Of Georgia

Untill recently Georgia was a leader of the euro-atlantic integration process among the formal soviet republics. But in 2022 unlike Ukraine and Moldova, it was denied the status of candidate member of EU. Despite the fact that she received candidate status in 2023 it is not clear whether the development of the country to democracy had stopped or not. This determined the purpose of the article to reveal the resilience of the democratic evolution of Georgia, which has not been studed yet. The article is founded on the contextual holism. Using cyclical approach, by means of case study and historical chronological methods the democratic evolution of Georgia is studed. Unenterrupted charactere of it indicates the high resilience of this evolution. It has been continued even under the conditions of authoritarian regimes.Three cycles of democratization and three cycles of athoritarization is discerned and their chronological frameworks are determined. High recilience of democratic evolution is explained by the higher level of the democratic potential of Georgia, which stopped the strngthening of authoritrian prassure. Geographical proximity to Europe and Christianity Added values of the article are : the detection of high resilience of the democcratic evalution of Georgia and contribution of authoritarian regimes to the democratic evolution; investigation of the role of democratic potential and westernization in this process. Cycles of democratization is distingished and their chronology established and the present phase of the transition to the democracy is identified. Variables of resilience of democratic evolution and authoritarianization are revealed. Enfluence of invasion of Russia in Ukraine on democratization is studed.

Humanity at the Crossroads. to “Uninstall” Artificial Intelligence or to Invest More in Artificial Intelligence

Abstract The answer to the dilemma in the title is evident: artificial intelligence cannot be decommissioned, just as states or multinational corporations will continue to invest in artificial intelligence. This paper, far from having a technical approach due to considerations related to the competence of the authors, actually aims to highlight the now immutable character of artificial intelligence through the spectrum of the indisputable benefits it generates in the most varied fields of activity, excluding, however, the thaumaturgic character promoted by the apostles of technology. It is an analysis of democracy marked by the intervention, if not sometimes the intrusion, of artificial intelligence, but also a review of the attempts to regulate artificial intelligence precisely so as not to cancel the progress made by the democratic evolution of society, with concrete reference to human rights.

The Pendulum of Power: Tracing Turkey's Democratic Evolution and Authoritarian Drift

The Pendulum of Power: Tracing Turkey's Democratic Evolution and Authoritarian Drift

Constitutional interpretation and populism: A comparison between Italy and Hungary

AbstractThis essay aims to compare the constitutional interpretation techniques used by the Italian Constitutional Court and the Hungarian one, facing the advancing of populist claims in Europe. After introducing the differences between the exercise of sovereignty in constitutional legal systems towards populistic regimes, the authors analyse some paradigmatic cases in which Constitutional Courts reacted to populistic waves. Through comparing the different legal instruments adopted to interpret the Constitution, this paper will therefore test the Italian and Hungarian legal system's concrete democratic evolution.

Navigating Democracy: Challenges and Triumphs in the Western Balkans

This paper delves into the multifaceted journey towards democracy in the Western Balkans, examining the interplay of historical legacies, contemporary challenges, and external influences. The narrative unfolds against the backdrop of the region's transition from authoritarianism to inclusive governance, acknowledging the complexities inherent in such a transformation. Focused on unraveling the complexities of multiethnic societies, the exploration scrutinizes the consequences of nationalism and the delicate balance required for stability. The role of external actors, notably the European Union, is critically assessed, revealing both opportunities for progress and constraints on regional autonomy. From the unresolved tensions between modernism and nationalism to the pursuit of democratic ideals, this paper contributes to a nuanced understanding of the ongoing democratic evolution in the Western Balkans. Through a comprehensive analysis, it becomes evident that the region's journey is characterized by a resilient spirit, navigating challenges, and celebrating incremental triumphs on the path toward a democratic destiny.

The Path to Democracy: A Critical Evaluation of the Impact of Region on the Democratic Process in the Western Balkans

Purpose: The present research is placed within the strand of studies on the quality of democracy and state-building in the Western Balkans (WB). We aim to explore the impact that both variables have on each other and on fostering democratic values in the specific given region. Methods: The method implied for the present work is desk research based on cohort studies or the path of Democratic evolution of the region. Data results, scored by MAXQDA software for desk and cohort-comparative research, comparing the World Government Index (WGI), the Bertelsmann Stiftung Index (BTI), and Freedom House reports for trends and predictions for the WB in a 30-year continuum and democratic transition, from 1992-2022. Results: Descriptive statistics revealed a linear distribution of both variables in all the 6WB countries (M=1.33; Mtot=36.33; SD=22.017) meaning the same probability of partial democratic scores in all the Region’s countries. Pearson correlation data revealed that there is a relation between the two variables (rw=.642; p<0.05). Regressive analysis revealed a good variability and Rsquare=.612 indicating that both variables encountered of a total of 95% of the total variance and stability. Linear regression also revealed a good influence between the 6WB region and their democratic status, confirming our primary assumption (R=.642; Sig2. p=0.63<0.05). Conclusions: One of the detrimental addresses of the present work is related to the conceptions of “Democracy”, “Geolocalisation”, “Rule of Law” and “Political Stability” and their impact on the policy effectiveness of the WB. In the end, the authors recommend a broad technical review of the Region’s Democratic Values and evolution achievements in the light of adherence to the European Union Value market.

Harmonizing Modern and Indigenous Democracy: An Exploration of Traditional Democratic Values in Ethnic Communities of Indonesia

The extended journey towards both economic and political modernization within Indonesia's democratic framework has led to a transformation of its society into an industrialized community. However, this change has largely failed to boost the economic prospects of the general populace. Moreover, the turbulent nature of Indonesia's democratic evolution has not aligned well with the principles of open dialogue and inclusive discussion, as advocated by its foundational philosophy, Pancasila. Over the last 15 years, the amalgamation of development-oriented politics and political liberalization has exerted a detrimental impact on the nation's unique cultural identity and wisdom. The upcoming research aims to revisit and revitalize the indigenous political ideologies and social values held by various ethnic groups and community structures in Indonesia. The objective is to shed light on the unexplored potential of social capital to enhance the quality of the country's democratic governance. The research will focus on two main categories for its case study: Firstly, it will delve into ethnic groups, concentrating specifically on the Wajo and Minang communities; Secondly, it will study communities that are active in a number of urban parks across the Java region. The study is rooted in the theoretical framework of consultative democracy and will utilize qualitative research methods interpreted through the lens of political anthropology to obtain nuanced, context-rich insights.

Democratic Evolution in Albania in the Aftermath of Candidate Country Status

The integration process in the European Union, being the major national goal, is the political action that leads the agenda of every Albanian government since 1992 up today. Being aware on the importance of integration process as the most efficient way towards the path of fast democratization, governments have undertaken concrete steps in the opening of accession negotiations. The integration process is in a very significant momentum which dictates dialogue and partnership. Every country that has set as a goal the EU integration, should respect the integration criteria’s or as known the ‘Copenhagen criteria’s’, on the basis under which the European Commission deliver the opinion in regard of every application. These criteria’s are defined during the European Council of Copenhagen in 1993 and accomplished during the European Council in Madrid in 1995. These are political criteria’s such as : stability of institutions which guarantee democracy, rule of law, human rights and respect and protection of minorities; economic criteria’s such as the existence of an efficient economy, capacity to challenge competition pressure and internal market forces of the EU; the opportunity to take responsibilities which derive by law and policies of the EU ( acquis communitaire). Stability, peace and the integration of the Western Balkan countries en block, play a fundamental role for the present and the future of Europe. Over the years, it has become more evident the necessity to strengthen the EU policies against countries of this region. Considering the geographic position of Albania in the Mediterranean and its importance in oftentimes weak spots within the region, it deserves a special attention by the European institutions. Since the candidate country’s status up to now, Albania has reached a moderate progress in terms of democracy shifting from a hybrid regime to a flawed democracy. Flawed democracy countries reflect a bold weakness in democratic terms, among others an underdeveloped political culture, low participation in political life and issues concerning governance. Civil rights are still problematic especially when it comes at media censorship or in attacks against country opposition.
 
 Received: 05 May 2022 / Accepted: 16 May 2023 / Published: 20 May 2023

Democratic evolution of Georgia and authoritarian cycles

The role of authoritarian regimes in the development of democracy is assessed negatively. The purpose of the article is to determine the role of authoritarian cycles in the democratic evolution of Georgia, what has not been explored. Methods: case study, sociological, processual, historical –chronological approaches. Findings& Value added: there are three cycles of democratization and authoritarianism in the political development of Georgia. In contrast to the Gamsakhurdia’s regime, electoral authoritarian regimes of Shevardnadze and Saakashvili enhanced democratic potential of it. Democratic development is the process of accumulation democratic resources and the enlargement of democratic potential. The resources of democracy are the instruments of public control over authority, relevant behaviors and values, the totality of which generates the democratic potential of society: political and civil society, electoral system, free media, etc. Westernization of Georgian society is the main source of its democratization. In 2012, a constitutional change of the government moved Georgia into the third cycle of democratization which has not transformed into authoritarianism, due to the democratic potential of society. The paper concludes that the country’s democratic progress continued even in the authoritarian cycles. This research creates new knowledge of the impact of electoral authoritarian regimes on the democratic evolution of Georgia.

ASSESSMENT OF EFFICIENCY IN DIGITAL ECONOMY DEVELOPMENT IN TUNISIA: A REGIONAL ANALYSIS

Aim of the study: From 2009 to 2017, this study examines the impact of information and communication technology on economic growth in 24 Tunisian regions. Methodology: The DEA model and the Malmquist index (MI) were used to evaluate trends in the efficiency of digital economy growth and ICT application in 24 Tunisian regions from 2009 to 2017. Finding: The findings imply that the efficacy of ICT will eventually lead to Tunisia's economic growth. Furthermore, policymakers should focus on promoting monetary policy and distributing resources efficiently for the country's long-term growth. Practical implications: From 2009 to 2017, the DEA model and the Malmquist index were used to assess trends in the efficiency of digital economy growth and ICT use in 24 Tunisian regions. (MI). The successful approach might show Tunisian economic leaders the flaws and strengths of their national goals for digital economy growth, as well as the factors that are driving the digital divide to widen with other growing nations. Originality/value: We use the Malmquist productivity index and data envelopment analysis (DEA) to track trends in the efficacy of digital economy growth in Tunisian regions. Keywords: Economic growth, Data envelopment analysis, Digital economy, ICT Paper type: Research paper

The cartel party - the end of democratic party evolution?

ABSTRACT Contrary to some interpretations, the cartel party model was never assumed to be an equilibrium end-state. Rather, it was postulated, on the one hand, that cartelization would lead to its own opposition in the form now identified as anti-party-system parties, and on the other hand, that this development would lead to further adaptation on the part of the cartel parties themselves. But is this continuing evolution leading to parties that are more democratic, either in their internal operation or in their contribution to the wider political system? While a number of empirical trends are evident, whether they represent ‘democratic evolution’ depends in large measure upon how one understands democracy itself.

Media Bias, Kurdish Repression, and the Dismantling of Local Democracy in Turkey

In this article, we explore how heightened repression and the consolidation of power by the executive branch in Turkey have allowed Erdogan to take steps that further undermine the country’s democratic evolution. We argue that Erdogan’s increasing pressure on the media, along with the state of emergency following the 2016 coup attempt, facilitated the repression of Kurdish municipalities. Focusing on the targeting of HDP mayors by the central government, we describe the political process leading to the purge of elected mayors and the normalization of the trustee system (kayyim) at the local level. We then conduct a content analysis of news articles to empirically examine potential bias in Turkish news outlets’ reporting. Our findings demonstrate differences in the content and framing of articles published by national and international news outlets concerning HDP co-mayors’ events and the takeover of their municipalities. We find that Turkish news outlets overwhelmingly promote the AKP party line, rarely provide balanced reporting, and propagate a ‘Kurds as terrorists’ frame.

Cultural Distance and Migration Patterns in the EU: The Romanian Case

Purpose: The main goal of this study is to explore the influence of cultural distance on migration flows in EU to see if there is a model/pattern of general behavior in this regard. Given the exploratory goal of this paper, the paper is focusing on the Romanian case, being the first one in a subsequent series of studies applied to all EU countries. Design/Methodology/Approach: Employing World Bank data for the decades between 1960 and 2000 and a cultural distance based on the six cultural dimensions’ model developed by Hofstede, a SEM (Structural Equation Modeling) methodology is applied using Smart-PLS software. Findings: The results confirm a negative significant correlation between cultural distance and migration flows, suggesting that when cultural distance is increasing, migration flows decrease. Practical Implications: The research has two management implications: firstly, the findings demonstrate that culture is crucial in decision-making and, acknowledging this fact, leads to better solutions to migration problems between various EU countries. Moreover, this research indicates that studying only the economic aspects of migration is not sufficient; there is also a need to grasp the complexity of cultural aspects. In this regard, culture is a powerful resource and can be instrumental in finding proper strategies to migration crisis and conflict management. Originality/Value: The present research adds valuable input to the exiting literature due to several reasons: firstly, is focusing on an Eastern European country with a communist past and with an interesting democratic evolution. Secondly, most of the studies regarding the Romanian migration focuses mainly on its flows to specific countries, such as Italy, Spain, and Germany. Thirdly, this research demonstrates that culture really shapes human actions and it points out that human flows are part of an important cultural assimilation process.

До питання проблем міжнародного іміджу сучасних українських громадських організацій

During the years of Ukraine’s independence, the procedure of propaganda of democratic values among the local population and provability of all their advantages for nation-building has grown quite significantly. The key role in this process was played by the citizens themselves, who made a confident choice in favor of the general democratic evolution of the state at the turn of the 1980’s and 1990’s. New Ukraine has since tried not to change this strategic course. However, the hybridity of some of the ruling political regimes is constantly testing the strength of the democratic vaccination of the Ukrainian nation. Time has shown that this strength can be traced to the example of the activities of national non-governmental organizations in state-building and public administration processes. Using the experience of Euro-Atlantic partners, national associations of citizens, which in the spirit of their program activities are aimed at community service, have acted as generators of propaganda for the whole spectrum of democratization of society. A significant part of public organizations, which are essentially called to be motivated missionaries and mediators of cultural and educational training of all members of a democratic society, were given the opportunity to spread democratic values among the citizens of Ukraine at various levels.Undoubtedly, all these facts affect the international image of the state and civil society in Ukraine in general. Even despite the negative phenomena «rooted» in the modern democratic model of state development, including those inherited by the communist-Soviet administration (corruption, non-publicity of power, interethnic and national relations, etc.), the level of social readiness for value self-improvement is constantly growing. In addition, the local «third sector» is assisted by international support in the form of dissemination of various grant and other assistance programs, strategies, courses, etc. Ukrainian society, through representatives of public organizations, adequately responds to such opportunities for cooperation and is involved in the public development of potential opportunities in practice. Such activity of public organizations, foundations, associations is a positive example of improving the international image of Ukraine, which can not but please all parties to the relevant public interaction.The problem of public actualization of public organizations in Ukraine is closely connected with international support and affects the international image of Ukrainian public organizations, which, at the same time, serve as a kind of measure of democracy and publicity of civil society in Ukraine.

Algeria: When Elections Hurt Democracy

The massive mobilization known as the Hirak (movement) which gathered millions of protesters in weekly demonstrations against the Algerian regime throughout 2019, underscores the strengths and weaknesses of both leaderless protests and electoral authoritarianism. Leaderless grassroots movements are effective in disrupting the pseudodemocratic tools that authoritarian elites use to remain in power, but they are less efficient at proposing institutional alternatives. The deeply flawed Algerian elections of December 2019 illustrated how a military-backed regime could ensure continuity in the ruling elite, at a cost to its legitimacy. The Hirak highlights the democratic evolution of societies in the Arab Muslim world and the slow but not yet decisive weakening of electoral authoritarianism.

Thailand’s Thwarted Democratization

In 2019, Thailand represents the case of an Asian country overshadowed by authoritarian forces, though it has time and again experienced attempts at democratization. This paper argues that democracy remains deficient in Thailand because, though there have been enormous advances in terms of the economy, social improvements and state stability, political space remains elusive and dominated by the monarchy and military. State formation in Thailand is a function of how entrenched social stratification has been reflected in a highly skewed distribution of economic resources. The paper asks the following five questions: First, why has Thailand, which appears to have become relatively strong in terms of economic and political stability, been unable to achieve democracy? Second, what has been the evolution of democracy versus authoritarianism in Thailand? Third, how have the linkages among state structures, economic relations and societal institutions evolved across time in Thailand? Fourth, what are the main features of their historical development today and how have these (as conditioned by domestic and international factors) affected Thailand’s political conditions? Fifth, what is the likely future of Thai democracy?

Woe of Tale? The emergence, vicissitudes and (over-) efficiency of the Swiss narrative of democracy

The Swiss narrative of democracy is a well-known and well-studied topic. Not only is it still used by current—mostly populist and xenophobic—political actors, but it has been explored by at least two generations of historians who have tracked its development before the French Revolution and, to a lesser extent, during the 19th century, a period during which Swiss democracy was undergoing dramatic changes. This literature shows that this narrative was first an account of Swiss liberty before focusing on democracy per se. It also demonstrates that the democracy it depicts has very little to do with its medieval counterpart. However, historians mostly overlook a crucial element, which is highlighted in this volume, as they fail to truly analyse the use of the narrative form—and the consequences of its use, per se. By focusing first on the emergence of this narrative and then by thoroughly exploring its development during the post-revolutionary period, along with the evolution of democracy itself, this article seeks to prove the importance of the narrative (form) for the evolution of Swiss modern democracy—even today.

Review of Democracy Values and Anti-Corruption Campaign in Nigeria: An Issue for Electoral Integrity and National Development.


 
 
 Elections have offered a way through which the people freely decide who their leaders should be. Unfortunately, in Nigeria, what could be called electoral corruption was observed recently during the election process. This has stigmatized the image of the government, weakened its credibility and reduced the effectiveness of the development programmes and polices which so far have been formulated. The objective of the study is to review democracy values and effort of anti- corruption campaign to achieve electoral integrity for national development. The study adopted a contents analysis, secondary data were gathered from the work of scholars, empirical studies and theoretical framework was made to arrive at a complete understanding of the trends in democratic process and anti-corruption campaign in Nigeria. The study concluded that if societies were not corrupt, if the elite, officials and bureaucrats maintained probity, social development would be faster. The study recommended that for a complete overhauled electoral system and further deepened the democratic ethics that will respond to Nigeria democratic evolution as a country and whose results will adequately mirror the preference of the voting public those who are involved in electoral corruption should be exposed and punish, this will set the nation on the path of good governance which broadly equates genuine popular democracy.