Popular sovereignty refers to the principle that the authority of a government is created and sustained by the consent of its people, typically expressed through elections and public referendums. This concept is foundational in democratic systems, asserting that the legitimacy of government derives from the will of the governed. It implies that citizens have the right to actively participate in political decision-making and to hold their leaders accountable. The idea is often enshrined in constitutional frameworks, emphasizing individual rights and the importance of public opinion in shaping governance.