Letter: For Democracy to Work We Need to Engage

Published on: 21 Jan, 2025
Updated on: 21 Jan, 2025

From Jim Allen

In response to: Local Government Reorganisation Is Good News

Democracy is a system of government that empowers individuals to participate in the decision-making processes. However, when people choose to disengage and refuse to utilize the democratic mechanisms available to them, it does not inherently render the system undemocratic.
Instead, it highlights a troubling reality: the apathy of local residents towards their civic duties and responsibilities.

This indifference reflects a sad situation where the potential for collective influence and change is squandered, leaving the democratic framework underutilized and ineffective.

The essence of democracy lies not only in its structure but also in the active participation of its citizens; without this engagement, the system risks becoming a mere formality, devoid of the vibrant discourse and action that are essential for its vitality.