When we talk about democracy, we are referencing various interconnected institutions beyond just voting procedures. While actions like placing ballots in boxes and representatives delivering speeches are visible components of democracy, they do not alone define it. In nations such as Russia and Venezuela, where lawmakers are elected, the absence of genuine democratic principles marks them as lacking in true democratic values, according to both impartial observers and local opposition leaders.

At the core of democracy lies the essential institutional framework that supports these electoral activities. The mere presence of elections does not guarantee a functioning democracy; instead, it is the strength and integrity of the underlying institutions that determine the health of a democratic system. As highlighted in "The Great Degeneration," authored by Niall Ferguson, understanding this institutional aspect is crucial for recognizing how democracies can thrive or deteriorate over time.