Real democracy means more than casting a ballot on election day, writes Asim Nawaz Abbassi, 27, a Correspondent from Islamabad, Pakistan, who argues democracy also involves being aware of rights and responsibilities. Democracy is believed by many to be the best political system on earth, as it provides the opportunity for marginalized groups in society to showcase their opinions. The …

"Democracy must not be misconceived" Read More »

With a new government elected in Nigeria, Oluwafemi Ogunjobi, 22, a Commonwealth Correspondent from Nigeria, reviews the legacy of former President Goodluck Jonathan. Every May 29 is Democracy Day in Nigeria. It is a day that commemorates the restoration of democracy in Nigeria. Nigeria faces a change of government as President Goodluck Jonathan relinquishes power to President-elect, Muhammadu …

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Voter apathy and disengagement are significant threats to democracy, writes Jake Elson, 21, a Commonwealth Correspondent from Bunbury in Australia, as he urges youth to take an active role in politics. The free and democratic world is facing what has to be its greatest danger in recent years. It isn’t Communism, nor is it fascism. Rather, …

“Youth, for the sake of freedom, get into politics!” Read More »

Kenya’s constitution promises equality for women, but as Brian Dan Migowe, 24, a Commonwealth Correspondent from Kenya explains, there are still hurdles to women’s participation and leadership. As the independence curtains opened to usher in a new day, the 12th of December 1963 became a significant day for the epitome of the Kenyan struggles for independence. …

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As Canadians head to the polls in a federal election, Alvin Ma, 24, a Commonwealth Correspondent from Canada, looks at the role of partisan campaign tactics. “I usually hate queues, but this is the only time I don’t mind lining up.” This quote from the person standing next to me in line reflects the sentiment of …

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Elections are a time to reflect on democracy, writes Jonathan Ugiagbe, 30, a Correspondent from Benin in Nigeria, who argues that Nigeria’s democracy needs nurturing by leaders and the people alike. For any nation, an election period is a time for renewal and also for reflection. After a long spell of authoritarian rule, democracy came …

“Nigeria – who cares for its needs?” Read More »

In this guest contribution, Ajibola Adigun of Nigeria outlines concerns about legislation threatening freedom of the media, an institution that has been described as the guardian of democratic rights.  In a desperate attempt to avoid criticism, members of the Kenyan Parliament have resorted to attacking the press. Kenyan journalists are being forced to endure costly …

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A more systemic approach is needed to entrench citizen engagement in democratic governance, writes Christine Shahbenderian, 23, a Correspondent from Nicosia in Cyprus, who argues that it is high time for us to do democracy differently.  “[The] key characteristic of democracy is the continuing responsiveness of the government to the preferences of its citizens, considered …

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“Young people have a role to play in ensuring good governance by keeping watch on all branches of the State,” writes Angelique Pouponneau, 25, a Correspondent from the Seychelles. She explores the idea that knowledge of the Constitution can help young people guide the direction of their respective countries. As a symbol of unity, in …

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The media says proposed amalgamation will strengthen public broadcasting, but Hsin-Yi Lo, a Commonwealth Correspondent from Melbourne, Australia, argues there are severe implications for democracy when media ownership is concentrated and diversity is limited. In late February, Mark Scott of the Australian Broadcasting Corporation questioned if Australia really needs two public broadcasters. He contests there isn’t …

“Proposed merger threatens media diversity” Read More »