Democracy: Afghanistan vs. Canada
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Item |
Afghanistan |
Canada |
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1 |
Democratic maturity |
A fledgling democracy. Started after the invasion of Afghanistan by mostly democratic countries following the 9/11 attack on the United States. |
A history of 250 years of democracy http://www.democracy250.ca/history.asp
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2 |
Legitimacy of Leaders |
Hamid Karzai was recently re-elected President in a disputed vote, fraught with fraud. |
Stephen Harper was re-elected Prime Minister of Canada in 2008, a straightforward election. Has been in power since 2006. |
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3 |
Influence on Global matters (today). |
None |
None |
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4 |
Adherence to democratic principles |
a) Despite international pressure president Karzai includes ex-warlords (who each represent several thousands afghan citizens) in his all inclusive government. b) Twice in quick succession the parliament rejected the majority of nominations by President Hamid Karzai for cabinet ministers. |
a) Stephen Harper prorogued parliament twice thus far effectively shutting down the opposition, and the millions of people supporting the opposition view. b) Replaced senators from opposition parties with senators from his own party in the senate thus making it more likely the Harper agenda gets implemented without contest. |
Which has a truer democracy today: Afghanistan or Canada?
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