Understanding Democracy: A Pinboard for Students

Democracy means that the people (all citizens of a country) participate in important decisions. Everyone has the right to express their opinion and to take part in elections.
Democracy is different from other forms of government like dictatorship, where only one person or a small group decides everything.
In a democracy, there are rules (laws) that everyone, including politicians, must follow.
Examples:
- In Germany, everyone over 18 can participate in federal elections.
- Children and young people are sometimes asked in schools how they want lessons or breaks to be organized (student participation).
⚙ einfuhrung

Elections are one of the most important features of democracy. People decide who should govern the country or city.
This is how elections (e.g. federal elections) work:
- All eligible voters receive an invitation to vote (voting notification).
- At the polling station, you mark parties and/or individuals on a ballot.
- The votes are counted, and whoever gets the most votes gets to govern or participate in parliament.
Example from Germany: In the German federal election, there are two votes: With the first vote you choose a person, with the second vote you choose a party. This determines who sits in parliament.
⚙ wahlen

Separation of powers means that power in the state is not held by one person or group. It is divided into three areas (powers) so that no one has too much power. This protects us from abuse.
The three powers:
- Legislative (making laws): Makes the laws – in Germany, for example, this is the parliament.
- Executive (enforcing laws): Executes the laws – for example, the police or public authorities.
- Judiciary (judging): Controls whether everyone follows the laws – this is done by the courts.
The powers check and control each other.
In Europe and Germany, this division is particularly important to ensure everything is fair.
⚙ gewaltenteilung

Freedom of expression means that everyone can say what they think – whether in conversation, online, or in the media.
No one may be punished for expressing their opinion, as long as they do not insult others or incite violence.
Why is this important?
- People can talk about problems and find solutions.
- Journalists can reveal problems.
- Politicians can discuss freely.
Example from Germany: Even if someone has a different opinion from the government, they can express it. In some other countries, this is not allowed.
⚙ meinungsfreiheit

Test your knowledge about democracy!
1. Question: Which is NOT a feature of democracy?
A: Elections
B: One person decides everything
C: Separation of powers
2. Question: Who is freedom of expression for?
A: For politicians
B: For all people
C: Only for adults
3. Question: What does the executive do?
A: It makes laws
B: It enforces laws
C: It passes judgments
Do you know the answers? Discuss in the classroom or collect the solutions together!
Further idea: Consider as a class how you can democratically vote on a topic (e.g. the next class project, a class trip, or playground rules).
⚙ quiz