Democratization is the process through which a country transitions from an authoritarian regime to a democratic system of governance. This often involves the establishment of free and fair elections, the protection of individual rights, and the promotion of political pluralism. The goal is to empower citizens to participate in decision-making and hold their leaders accountable.
This process can occur through various means, including peaceful reforms, social movements, or even revolutions. Historical examples of democratization include the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989 and the Arab Spring protests that began in 2010, which aimed to challenge oppressive governments and promote democratic ideals.