Democracy is the first of the four fundamental British Values. The UK is a parliamentary democracy, meaning the people elect representatives to make decisions on their behalf.
How UK Democracy Works
Voting Rights - **Who can vote**: British, Irish, and qualifying Commonwealth citizens aged 18+ who are registered - **General elections**: Choose MPs to represent constituencies - **Local elections**: Choose councillors for local government - **Referendums**: Occasional direct votes on important issues
Parliament - **House of Commons**: 650 elected MPs - **House of Lords**: Appointed members who review legislation - **Government**: Formed by the party with the most MPs
Elections - General elections are held **at least every 5 years** - Voters choose one MP per constituency - The party with the most MPs usually forms the government - The leader of that party becomes Prime Minister
Key Democratic Rights
- **Freedom of speech** - Express opinions freely (within the law)
- **Freedom of the press** - Independent media can report freely
- **Right to protest** - Peaceful protest is protected
- **Political parties** - Multiple parties compete for votes
Responsibilities
Democracy gives rights but also responsibilities: - **Register to vote** and use your vote - **Respect the outcome** of elections - **Stay informed** about political issues - **Participate** in community and civic life
History of Democracy in the UK
- **1832** - Great Reform Act expanded voting rights
- **1918** - Women over 30 gained the vote
- **1928** - Equal voting rights for women (age 21)
- **1969** - Voting age lowered to 18