Discuss the two distinct paths that partly developed countries can take to achieve political stability.

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

An ideal answer should include:
1. In order to achieve political stability, some countries have focused on ensuring higher levels of democratic freedoms. These countries have chosen democracy: elections are fair, open, and very competitive; multiple parties hold seats in the legislature; and there are smooth leadership turnovers. The citizens' political rights and civil liberties are extensive. There is a vigorous political discourse and a press that is free to report honestly and impartially on the government and political elites. There is a participatory political culture that encourages an engaged civil society. Finally, there are alternative sources of information that provide a variety of perspectives on political events and issues.
2. Other countries have chosen to accept more authoritarian restrictions. Many of these countries experimented with democracy but have grown more authoritarian. There, elections may occur, but they are rigged or mismanaged, opposition groups are threatened (or worse), journalists who report negatively on the government are sanctioned (or worse), and social freedoms (e.g., freedom from discrimination based on gender or sexual orientation) are limited. The regime's justification is that order maintenance is possible only through extensive limitations on individual and group freedoms.