Democracy is based on the notion of self-governance, in which citizens are responsible for taking part in governing a nation. Without the active and informed participation of citizens, a democratic system would be unable to function and would be susceptible to corruption and abuse (Leighley & Oser, 2018). Civic participation is essential for the formulation and implementation of public policy. Citizens are the ultimate source of political power in a democratic country, and their input is necessary for the effective governance of their nation. Governments would not be able to accurately represent the views and interests of the people they serve without public participation. Additionally, involving citizens in governance is crucial for ensuring that policies are implemented equitably and benefit all citizens. Citizen engagement is necessary for a thriving democracy because it is the basis for the protection of individual rights and for the rule of law.
Citizen engagement advocates for the protection of individual rights. Democracies are based on the principle of individual liberty and the protection of human rights. Citizens must be engaged to ensure their rights are respected, and their interests are represented in public policy. Citizen engagement promotes accountability and transparency in government and helps to prevent the abuse of power. Furthermore, the involvement of citizens plays a vital role in maintaining public order. In a democracy, citizens are responsible for the enforcement of laws and the preservation of public safety (Leighley & Oser, 2018). It is essential to educate the public and inform them about their rights and responsibilities, so they can effectively take part in the enforcement of laws. Citizens in democratic governance facilitate the resolution of disputes, as they can engage in dialogue and mediation to reach equitable solutions. Moreover, this involvement is crucial for the promotion of economic development (Leighley & Oser, 2018).
In conclusion, citizen engagement helps ensure that economic policies reflect the interests of all citizens’ interests and that economic opportunities are available to all. Citizen engagement provides a conducive environment for the successful functioning of a democracy. Citizen engagement promotes the protection of individual rights, the maintenance of public order, and the promotion of economic development. The participation of citizens in the economic and political life of their nation is essential for creating a prosperous and equitable society.
Reference
Leighley, J. E., & Oser, J. (2018). Representation in an era of political and economic inequality: How and when citizen engagement matters. Perspectives on Politics, 16(2), 328-344.