For a political system to be considered democratic, it must meet certain criteria, including free and fair elections, protection of individual rights, and rule of law. Democratic systems typically feature regular electoral processes that allow citizens to choose their representatives while ensuring equitable participation for all voters. Additionally, the protection of civil liberties—such as freedom of speech, assembly, and the press—is essential to fostering an informed electorate. Accountability mechanisms, such as independent judiciaries and transparent government practices, further enhance democratic governance. Overall, these criteria create an environment conducive to citizen engagement and legitimate political discourse.