Why Democracy Matters: Rebuilding Trust and Reigniting Civic Engagement

In an era marked by political disillusionment, it's crucial to re-evaluate the essence of democracy. British MP Rory Stewart delivers a compelling argument for why democracy matters, not just as a means to an end, but as a fundamental ideal rooted in equality, liberty, and individual dignity.

The Crisis of Confidence in Democracy

Across the globe, from developed nations to developing countries, a sense of disappointment pervades the political landscape. In Britain, a staggering 84% of people feel that politics is broken. This sentiment is echoed in middle-income countries like Jamaica, where despite having highly educated parliamentarians, stark socio-economic disparities persist.

The Illusion of Democracy as a Quick Fix

In the early 2000s, there was a widespread belief that democracy could solve many of the world's problems. The idea was that democratic governments, respecting their people and neighbors, would foster peace, prosperity, and security. However, the experiences in Iraq and Afghanistan revealed a different reality. Despite multiple elections, these nations struggled with corruption, instability, and a lack of genuine civil society.

The Intrinsic Value of Democracy

Stewart argues that the value of democracy should not be based on its perceived benefits. To say that democracy is important because it brings prosperity or security is a dangerous argument. What happens when a non-democratic country achieves economic success? Does that negate the need for democracy?

• Democracy's true value lies in its intrinsic qualities:
  • Equality: Every individual has an equal vote and an equal say in the formation of their government.
  • Liberty: Democracy protects individual freedoms and rights.
  • Dignity: It recognizes the inherent worth and value of every person.

Rebuilding Democracy: A Call to Action

To revitalize democracy, we need to shift our focus from structures to a state of mind, from passive observation to active engagement.

The Role of Honesty and Transparency

Politicians must be honest with the public, even when it means admitting they don't have all the answers or that certain promises cannot be fulfilled. The media, in turn, must allow politicians to be honest, fostering a culture of transparency and accountability.

Harnessing the Genius of Our Societies

We live in an era where societies are more educated, energized, and informed than ever before. It's crucial to tap into this collective intelligence and empower local communities. This could involve:

• Directly electing mayors.
• Establishing local elections at the district level.
• Encouraging active and informed engagement from every citizen.

The Importance of Trust

Ultimately, rebuilding democracy requires a two-way street of trust. The public must learn to trust their politicians, and politicians must learn to trust the public. Only then can we create a vibrant and vigorous democracy that truly reflects the values of equality, liberty, and dignity.

In conclusion, the challenge of our time is to move beyond a superficial understanding of democracy and embrace its deeper meaning. By prioritizing honesty, empowering local communities, and fostering trust, we can reignite civic engagement and build a more just and equitable world.