Democratic Legitimacy Score

All affected parties can participate in governance

Participation barriers (cost, time, access) are minimized

Participation rates are tracked and actively improved

Diverse voices are represented proportionally

Decision-makers can be removed through legitimate processes

Regular reporting on decisions and outcomes occurs

Independent oversight mechanisms exist

Consequences exist for governance failures

Decisions are preceded by structured deliberation

Opposing viewpoints are actively sought and considered

Evidence and expert input inform deliberations

Deliberation outcomes are documented and transparent

Governance bodies reflect the community they serve

Marginalized groups have meaningful representation

Representatives are selected through fair processes

Term limits prevent entrenchment of power

Decision-making processes are publicly documented

Financial information is readily accessible

Meeting minutes and vote records are published

Conflicts of interest are disclosed proactively

Decisions can be formally challenged or appealed

Appeal processes are accessible and timely

Judicial or quasi-judicial review is available

Constitutional protections limit majority power