the notion of democratic legitimacy

Democratic legitimacy refers to the accepted justification for a government’s authority, stemming from its democratic process. It means that a government is considered legitimate when it gains power through fair elections where citizens have a voice, and it respects the rule of law and human rights. In essence, it ensures that those in government are answerable to the people they serve, reflecting the collective will and ensuring decisions are made transparently and legitimately. This legitimacy builds trust, stability, and the moral right for a government to govern.