The different forms of power sharing in modern democracies are:


→ Horizontal Distribution of Power: The power is shared among the different organs of government, such as the legislature, executive and judiciary. Example: The distribution of power between Indian Parliament (legislature), the council of ministers headed by chief ministers (executive) and Courts of India.


→ Vertical Distribution of Power: The power is shared among governments at different levels– a general government for the entire country and governments at the provincial or regional level. Example: In India, power is shared among Central government, State government and local governments.


→ Distribution of Power among different Social Groups: Power may also be shared among different social groups such as the religious and linguistic groups.Example: ‘Community Government’ in Belgium.


→ Distribution of Power among Political Parties, Pressure Groups and Movements: Political Parties, Pressure Groups and Movements control or influence those who are in power. Different political parties contest elections for power which ensures that power does not remain in one hand and shared among different political parties that represent different ideologies and social groups. Pressure groups and movements influence the decision making process...

Forms of Power in Modern Democracy

In a modern democracy, power is distributed among various institutions and individuals to ensure a system of checks and balances. The different forms of power in modern democracy can be categorized as follows:

1. Executive Power:
- The executive branch is responsible for implementing laws and policies.
- It is typically headed by a president or prime minister, who holds significant decision-making power.
- The executive power includes the authority to appoint government officials, make executive orders, and conduct foreign policy.

2. Legislative Power:
- The legislative branch consists of elected representatives who create and pass laws.
- It is responsible for representing the interests of the people and ensuring accountability of the executive branch.
- Legislative power includes the authority to propose and debate legislation, amend existing laws, and scrutinize the government's actions.

3. Judicial Power:
- The judicial branch comprises courts and judges that interpret and apply laws.
- It ensures the protection of individual rights, resolves disputes, and upholds the rule of law.
- Judicial power includes the authority to adjudicate cases, interpret the constitution, and review the constitutionality of laws.

4. Bureaucratic Power:
- Bureaucracy refers to the administrative apparatus of the government.
- Bureaucrats, who are non-elected officials, exercise power by implementing laws and regulations.
- Bureaucratic power includes the authority to develop policies, issue licenses, and enforce regulations.

5. Media Power:
- The media plays a crucial role in modern democracies by providing information and holding the government accountable.
- It influences public opinion, shapes political discourse, and acts as a watchdog.
- Media power includes the authority to investigate and report on government actions, promote transparency, and shape public perception.

6. Civil Society Power:
- Civil society encompasses non-governmental organizations, interest groups, and grassroots movements.
- It represents the diverse interests of citizens and acts as a counterbalance to state power.
- Civil society power includes the authority to advocate for specific causes, mobilize public support, and influence policy decisions.

Power Sharing in Democracy

Power sharing is an essential feature of a healthy democracy as it prevents the concentration of power in the hands of a few and ensures the representation of diverse interests. It promotes inclusivity, stability, and accountability. Here are different ways power can be shared in a democracy:

1. Horizontal Power Sharing:
- This form of power sharing involves the distribution of power among different branches of government, such as the executive, legislative, and judicial branches. Each branch has distinct powers and functions, acting as a check on the others.

2. Vertical Power Sharing:
- Vertical power sharing refers to the decentralization of power between the central government and regional or local governments. It allows for local autonomy, better representation of regional interests, and the efficient delivery of public services.

3. Consociational Power Sharing:
- Consociational power sharing is practiced in deeply divided societies where power is shared among different ethnic, religious, or linguistic groups. It aims to prevent conflicts by giving each group a stake in the political system and representation in decision-making processes.

4. Electoral Power Sharing:
- Electoral power sharing involves fair and inclusive electoral processes that ensure the representation of various groups and interests. It includes measures such as proportional representation, reserved seats for marginalized groups, and electoral reforms to prevent dominance by a single party.

5. Media and Civil Society Power Sharing:
- Power sharing also occurs through the active participation of the media and civil