Question

analyse the level of participation in the elections in our country

Answer 1

Answer:

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The level of people’s participation in the elections shows the quality of the election process. This is ,to see whether people participate in it with enthusiasm. If the election process is not free and fair, people will not continue to participate in the exercise. People’s participation in election is usually measured by voter turnout figures. Over the last fifty years, the turnout has either remained stable or actually gone up in our country. In India, the poor, illiterate and underprivileged people vote in larger proportion as compared to the rich and privileged sections. Common people in India attach a lot of importance to elections. They feel that through elections they can bring pressure on political parties to adopt policies and programmes favourable to them. The interest of voters in election-related activities has been increasing over the years. During the 2004 elections, more than one-third voters took part in a campaign related activities. More than half of the people identified themselves as being close’to one or the other political party.

Answer 2

Explanation:

Participation in electoral processes involves much more than just voting. Political participation derives from the freedom to speak out, assemble and associate; the ability to take part in the conduct of public affairs; and the opportunity to register as a candidate, to campaign, to be elected and to hold office at all levels of government. Under international standards, men and women have an equal right to participate fully in all aspects of the political process. In practice, however, it is often harder for women to exercise this right. In post-conflict countries there are frequently extra barriers to women’s participation, and special care is required to ensure their rights are respected in this regard.

 

Political parties are among the most important institutions affecting women’s political participation. In most countries, parties determine which candidates are nominated and elected and which issues achieve national prominence. The role of women in political parties is therefore a key determinant of their prospects for political empowerment, particularly at the national level. Because political parties are so influential in shaping women’s political prospects, Governments and international organizations seeking to advance the participation of women in elections justifiably tend to focus on the role of political parties.

 

Political participation extends beyond parties, however. Women can also become involved in certain aspects of the electoral process through independent action—particularly at the local level—and by joining civil society organizations. Some women in post-conflict countries have gained political experience by participating in non-elected transitional assemblies. Women’s networks, trade unions, non-governmental organizations, and the media can all provide avenues for women’s political participation.