“ Political Rights” means more than just elections; although important, it includes other issues, such as what happens during the campaign prior to elections – was there intimidation of opposition opponents? Were there “problems” registering voters? And what happens after the new government is elected? Can the government actually function? Is it corrupt? Do the parties function together? Why do you think we would look at these things?
Are elections the only measure of democracy? Many people, and many governments, think so. But ask the students these questions and see what answers they give. Use the bullet questions, if necessary, to guide them.
CORRUPTION is a good topic to discuss with students – what do they think of corruption? Small corruption, such as cheating on test, equally valid as corruption.
#1 – students take for granted freedom of travel, choice of residence, so this is a good question for them to discuss #2 – the right to own property and establish private businesses is part of what draws people to this country #3 – ask the students about China’s One Child Policy – would they want to be told how many children they could have, or whom they could marry? Countries with strict religious laws restrict or deny interfaith marriages #4 – This includes trafficking of children and women, and child labor