8.2.5 Human Rights and Democracy
Completion requirements
8.2.5 Human Rights and Democracy
How should I respond to globalization?
When people began to demand a voice in how their nations should be governed, they formed democracies. This form of government "by the people" brought with it the idea that all people are entitled to equality. With equality comes equal rights — human rights. In a democracy, if people feel their rights are being violated, they have many legal means to pursue justice, including changing the government in power.
The Growth of Democracy At one time in history, no nations were democratic. They were ruled by monarchs or hereditary rulers, elites group of powerful people, or leaders backed by armies. However, all over the world, nations are becoming democracies. Although not all these democracies give people the full opportunity to participate in decision making, they are headed towards greater political rights for all.
The Growth of Democracy At one time in history, no nations were democratic. They were ruled by monarchs or hereditary rulers, elites group of powerful people, or leaders backed by armies. However, all over the world, nations are becoming democracies. Although not all these democracies give people the full opportunity to participate in decision making, they are headed towards greater political rights for all.
The map examines the degree of democracy found in 167 nations of the world, according to the Economist magazine, rated according to
Colours vary from light blue (representing a great degree of democracy) to black (representing an authoritarian regime). Canada scored 9th of 167 nations in democracy. See the complete list here.
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free and fair election process
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civil liberties
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functioning of government
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political participation
Colours vary from light blue (representing a great degree of democracy) to black (representing an authoritarian regime). Canada scored 9th of 167 nations in democracy. See the complete list here.
Democracy Map
The lighter the colour, the more democratic the nation.
Courtesy of Wikimedia Foundation
The effect of globalization: Sometimes we do not see the flaws in ourselves until we see another way, or until someone explains why our actions are wrong. Many nations are moving towards individual freedoms, greater human rights, and more democracy because of the influence of other countries. Democratic nations have an important role in encouraging all nations to provide their citizens with more rights and freedoms.
For example, in the past, international relationships between South Africa and the democratic world led to a change in the apartheid system. As the people of South Africa realized that their nation was not respected because of its unfair policies that discriminated against the black people, they became more willing to change. Their connections with other people and nations were at risk. They learned that this system was not acceptable to most people in the world.
What can be done? For example, the Canadian government has been in trade talks with China. How can Canada use this opportunity for the greater good?
Perspectives on Government: Most people in the developed world live in democratic nations with fundamental beliefs that citizens should be at the core of decision making. However, many other forms of government exist in the world today. Although not every person who lives in a non-democratic state supports that form of government, others believe that their forms of government are right.
The lighter the colour, the more democratic the nation.
Courtesy of Wikimedia Foundation
The effect of globalization: Sometimes we do not see the flaws in ourselves until we see another way, or until someone explains why our actions are wrong. Many nations are moving towards individual freedoms, greater human rights, and more democracy because of the influence of other countries. Democratic nations have an important role in encouraging all nations to provide their citizens with more rights and freedoms.
For example, in the past, international relationships between South Africa and the democratic world led to a change in the apartheid system. As the people of South Africa realized that their nation was not respected because of its unfair policies that discriminated against the black people, they became more willing to change. Their connections with other people and nations were at risk. They learned that this system was not acceptable to most people in the world.
Reflect
What can be done? For example, the Canadian government has been in trade talks with China. How can Canada use this opportunity for the greater good?
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Should Canada discuss human rights with China's leaders?
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Should we refuse to trade with China until it demonstrates willingness to change?
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Should we encourage trade because, through increased contacts, the people of China will begin to demand change?
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Should we hope China will want to follow our example?
Perspectives on Government: Most people in the developed world live in democratic nations with fundamental beliefs that citizens should be at the core of decision making. However, many other forms of government exist in the world today. Although not every person who lives in a non-democratic state supports that form of government, others believe that their forms of government are right.