Why Russia and China are questioned about democracy?

Question

I mean Russia had elections recently and China also has peoples national congress , but even then the West; especially USA doesn't believe that there is democracy in these two countries. Why it is so?

Answer 1

China & Russia have embraced capitalism, but democracy is another kettle of fish. Anyone who remembers the crackdown in Tiananmen Square (look it up on Youtube) or who reads up about internet censorship in China realizes the Chinese government is not big on democratic institutions such as a free press or freedom of speech and so folks live with a certain amount of fear.

In Russia, Putin's maneuvers and crackdowns mimic those in China to some degree. His KGB background is enough to give anyone the eeby-jeebies when it comes to thinking he really believes or wants to embrace democracy in Russia.

Just because a nation has elections or permits voting does not mean you have a real democracy. It's good to remember that Saddam Hussein received 100 percent of the vote in popular elections more than once. Tinpot tyrants often pretend they have a democracy when, in truth, no such democracy exists.

The USA generally understands that it takes more than just lip service to create a democracy. People need more than just the right to vote. The US Bill of Rights affords US citizens the protections that allow them to vote without fear of personal repercussions, or negative reactions in their workplace or fear for their family's well being.

Answer 2

Thought this was a joke at first. Take a look at those who have opposed Putin. Those that are business men soon find their companies taken over by the government "for the good of the people" and others are arrested and there is evidence that others are simply killed. He also runs the media there, so the people aren't exactly informed when it comes to politics. Yeah, sounds like democracy to me. As for China, they call themselves a communist power, so I think that stands for itself. And remember, elections don't always mean democracy. Saddam held elections too, though he was always the only person on the ballot. Awaiting your next question as to why people are questioning Cuba and North Korea about their democracy.