Characteristics of an effective political debate include clarity, structure, and inclusion of diverse viewpoints. Debates should allow participants to articulate their policies and positions clearly, ensuring audiences can easily follow the discussion. A structured format with time limits and defined topics promotes fair exchanges and prevents dominance by a single participant. Importantly, inviting diverse perspectives enriches the dialogue, enabling audiences to understand the multifaceted nature of political issues. Effective debates also encourage respect among participants, fostering an atmosphere where constructive critique and collaboration can thrive, ultimately leading to informed voter decisions.