Question

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how social differences can t​

Answer 1

Answer:

Democracy involves competition among various political parties. If these political parties use this

competition in support of some social divisions, it can lead to political divisions. This can lead

to conflict, violence or even disintegration of a country. This has happened in many countries:

(i) First example is of North Ireland where religious divisions led to ethno-political conflict. Two major sects of Christianity – Protestants (53 per cent) and Roman Catholics(44 per cent) are represented in the country. The Catholics were represented by Nationalist parties who demanded that Northern Ireland be unified with the Republic of Ireland, a predominantly Catholic country. The Protestants were represented by Unionists who wanted to remain with the UK, which is predominantly protestant. The fight between Nationalist and Unionist led to social conflicts where hundreds of civilians died.

(ii) Another example is of Yugoslavia where political competition along religious and ethnic lines led to the disintegration of Yugoslavia into six independent countries.