This chapter identifies and discusses key elements associated with lasting, vibrant democracy—one of the eight bases vital to fostering a culture of peace across multiple levels of societal organization. Although the mere existence of democratic decision-making systems is not sufficient for a culture of peace to emerge or to flourish, a democratic decision-making system is far more likely to thrive within—and thereby strengthen—a culture of peace. Thus, democratic participation is an integral element that acts collectively with the seven other bases discussed in this section.
The myriad of structures, institutions, processes, and actors critical to successful democratic participation is a central—but not the exclusive—focus of this chapter. Equally important are the examples of past and extant/emerging peace cultures with institutions for participatory democratic rule. Through its theoretical underpinnings, examples, and practical analyses, this chapter presents a framework for democratic participation in a culture of peace.
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Kisielewski, M., LeDoux, T.F. (2009). Democratic Participation. In: de Rivera, J. (eds) Handbook on Building Cultures of Peace. Peace Psychology Book Series. Springer, New York, NY. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-0-387-09575-2_11
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