Democracy as an illusion
#272
My Dear Friend of Democracy,
I recently visited an exhibition in Berlin about the so-called Palace of the Republic (Palast der Republik).
The Palace of the Republic was probably the most famous building of the defunct GDR (German Democratic Republic).
Among others, the building, which was demolished in 2006, was the meeting place of the People's Chamber (Volkskammer).
However, the people were not represented in the Volkskammer.
In theory, the People's Chamber was East Germany's highest constitutional body. In practice, this parliament was neither freely elected nor did it influence the binding resolutions made by the SED (Socialist Unity Party). It met only a few days a year to legitimize the party's absolute rule by giving its unanimous approval.
Why all the effort (not only in the defunct GDR but also today in many pseudo-democracies around the globe)? Why do so often those in power try in many ways to create the impression that the state is a democracy?
Because if the people believe they are powerful, the de facto rulers can stay in power more easily. The rulers can then expect less resistance from the de facto oppressed.
✊ The GDR is just one example of many. Undemocratic rulers around the world have created and create the illusion of legitimacy. Institutions and buildings are constructed to convince people at home and abroad that those in power are elected by the people and are, therefore, desirable. Let us not be blinded by this. A country does not become a democracy because it has a parliament.
See you in Democracy,
Johannes
P.S.: Eventually, the Palace of the Republic in Berlin became a place of democracy. During the Peaceful Revolution. The first democratic elections held in March 1990 brought democratic life into the People's Chamber. Within a few months, members debated fundamental questions about the country's future, including social and monetary union and the creation of five federal states. On 23 August 1990, the parliament resolved to accede to the Federal Republic of Germany.
