Lesson 1: Government and Democracy

What is government? The role of government is to make decisions and laws for the people living within its borders, and to provide services to manage certain responsibilities. In Canada there is a government for the whole country, one for each province/territory, and one for each community.

How do governments compare? Governments around the world differ from one another and they can be compared by answering the following questions: a) Who holds power? b) How do they get to be in power? c ) What rights and freedoms do people have?

Autocracy / Dictatorship Autocracy/Dictatorship = one person is the leader The ruler has total control over all the people and most aspects of their lives. The leader is called a dictator and often forces their way into power with the support of the military and without permission of the people. Citizens have few rights and freedoms. Examples: North Korea, Syria.

Oligarchy Oligarchy (or Aristocracy) = several people lead together Power is shared by only a few people. They usually come to power because of wealth or family lines and relationships. Citizens have some rights and freedoms. Examples: Saudi Arabia, Kuwait.

Democracy Democracy = All citizens have a say in determining the government and they have a voice through their elected representatives. They have free and fair elections, and citizens can run for political office. The rights and freedoms of citizens are protected (e.g., the right to vote, freedom of speech and expression). Examples: Canada, the United States, Japan, England.

Canada’s Government Canada is a democracy and a constitutional monarchy. We elect people to represent us in our governments and make decisions on our behalf. Canada is a member of the British Commonwealth (along with 52 other countries) and is connected to the Crown. The Queen of England is also Canada’s Queen. The Queen accepts all decisions made by the Government of Canada, but she continues to play an important ceremonial role.

Final Thoughts What would your life be like without a government? What are the pros and cons of each type of government? Would you prefer to live in a dictatorship or a democracy? Why?