Peace and Strong Institutions – A Foundation for Democracy Democracy is more than just holding elections; it is about creating inclusive societies where every voice matters.
This guide breaks down how to excel on exam questions about peace and strong institutions, using a model essay to show you exactly what examiners look for and how to achieve a top grade.
📋 Exam Question
- Tekstsamhandling
- Peace and strong institutions
Using the material below, write a text in which you respond to what is suggested about how to protect and strengthen democracy.
- Recommended length: 175-300 words
UN Sustainable Development Goal 16:
Promote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, provide access to justice for all and build effective, accountable and inclusive institutions at all levels
Source: https://sdgs.un.org/goals/goal16
Albert Einstein:
- Peace is not merely the absence of war but the presence of justice, of law, of order - in short, of government.
Source: https://www.uio.no/studier/emner/jus/jus/ENGSEMJ/v08/undervisningsmateriale/IL%20&%20HR/Topic%202%20-%20Reading.pdf
Source: https://m.facebook.com/ImpactVoices.Global/photos/a.217417766375258/575421473908217/
Poster from Sri Lanka marking International Day of Democracy.
✏️ Model Answer
Peace and Strong Institutions – A Foundation for Democracy
Democracy is more than just holding elections; it is about creating inclusive societies where every voice matters. According to UN Sustainable Development Goal 16, a strong democracy relies on peace, justice, and inclusive institutions. This goal emphasizes the importance of building societies that are not only free from conflict but also fair, transparent, and representative of all people.
The poster from Sri Lanka marking the International Day of Democracy states: “Inclusion is an essential element for a thriving democracy.” This highlights a crucial point — without inclusion, democracy becomes fragile. When certain groups are excluded based on their ethnicity, gender, ability, or background, society loses important perspectives, and trust in the system weakens. A thriving democracy requires everyone to have equal access to participation, especially marginalized groups. For example, ensuring that people with disabilities can vote, be heard, and run for office strengthens democratic institutions.
Albert Einstein once said: “Peace is not merely the absence of war but the presence of justice, of law, of order – in short, of government.” His words suggest that democracy cannot function in a vacuum. It requires structures that guarantee rights, uphold laws fairly, and provide justice for all. Without this framework, peace is temporary and unstable.
Moreover, building effective and accountable institutions means that governments must be transparent and responsive. When citizens trust that their leaders are acting in the public’s interest and are held accountable for their actions, they are more likely to engage in democratic processes. Corruption and abuse of power are threats to democracy, which is why strong institutions are key.
Education also plays a role. Citizens who are informed and aware of their rights are better equipped to defend democracy and resist authoritarianism. Promoting civic education, encouraging dialogue, and protecting freedom of speech all contribute to a healthy democratic society. …