Modernization, global connectivity, aspiration for a more free world demand a more decentralized and inclusive approach to democracy
Zaheer Udin Babar Junejo
Throughout history, rulers, kings, and emperors held absolute power over their territories. The Roman Empire (27 BC – 476 AD) exemplified this, with emperors like Augustus and Nero wielding immense authority. Similarly, the Persian Empire, under rulers like Cyrus the Great and Darius I, controlled vast regions with centralized power. These autocratic systems allowed rulers to dictate laws, collect taxes, and manage resources without much input from their subjects. The advent of democracy brought a significant shift in governance. Originating in ancient Greece around the 5th century BC, democracy empowered citizens to participate in decision-making. This idea evolved over the centuries, leading to modern representative democracies. By the 18th century, nations like the United States and France adopted democratic principles, allowing elected representatives to decide the nation’s path based on the majority’s will.
To address these challenges, a review of the democratic model is urgently needed
However, the rise of information technology and the widespread access to media in the 21st century have transformed our world into a global village. This transformation exposed many things which the majority was unaware of. The Information, whether right or wrong, is now readily available to everyone, blurring traditional boundaries. This interconnectedness has highlighted the limitations of current democratic models. Religious models and nationalisms are becoming obsolete, with everyone around the globe following their own defined principles. In such situations, one’s right may seem wrong even within one’s own family, the circumstances suggest a need to rethink the democratic model.
To address these challenges, a review of the democratic model is urgently needed. Devolving power at the grassroots level can enhance governance, transparency, and accountability by ensuring that decisions, as well as their implementation, reflect local needs and contexts. Nowadays, federations are often perceived as entities focused on revenue collection, with poor services and dirty power games threatening the overall franchising mechanisms. It is time to prioritize supporting communities, especially in times of crisis. This approach will create a more responsive and inclusive governance system, suitable for our interconnected world. While historical governance models, even societies like ours, where elders had the right to lead, are now taken over by the youth, and the ones who earn more are leading now, there is no concept of centralized power. Modernization, global connectivity, aspiration for a more free world demand a more decentralized and inclusive approach to democracy. Peace and harmony depend on all of our ability to evolve and adapt to the changing dynamics of our global village.
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Zaheer Udin Babar Junejo, based in Hyderabad, is a specialist in Institutional Development, MEAL, and Fundraising. linkedin.com/in/zaheer-udin-babar-junejo-0a30a9152
