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Critically examine the role of political parties in sustaining and stabilising democracies in the developing societies. 15 Marks (UPSC CSE Mains 2024- Political Science and International Relations, Paper 2).
Political parties are fundamental to the operation and stability of democratic systems in the developing societies. They serve as critical institutions that represent diverse societal interests, aggregate preferences into coherent platforms, and provide voters with clear choices during elections.
- The competitive nature of political parties ensures that governments are formed through a democratic process, reflecting the will of the people and thereby legitimizing governmental authority. Through mechanisms of accountability, political parties monitor the performance of elected officials, both within the party and through opposition, ensuring adherence to democratic principles and responsiveness to the electorate.
- Political parties also play a significant role in political education, informing citizens about key issues, policy options, and the implications of their electoral choices. This educational function fosters an informed and engaged electorate, essential for the healthy functioning of democracy.
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- Additionally, political parties are instrumental in policy formulation, developing comprehensive proposals to address societal needs and challenges.
- Moreover, political parties contribute to political stability and effective governance by providing structured competition and a framework for decision-making. They balance the need for continuity and change, maintaining order while driving reforms.
- By advocating for marginalized and minority groups, political parties promote inclusivity and social justice, ensuring that diverse voices are heard within the political process.
- Furthermore, political parties act as intermediaries between citizens and the government, facilitating communication and enhancing civic engagement. This intermediary role is crucial for ensuring that public preferences are reflected in policy decisions.
Political parties are hence indispensable to the effective functioning of democracies. They serve as crucial intermediaries between the electorate and the government, ensuring that diverse societal interests are represented and aggregated into coherent policy platforms. By providing voters with distinct choices during elections, parties facilitate informed decisionmaking and democratic legitimacy.