In today's world, where the ideals of democracy, equality, and human rights are fundamental values, the institution of monarchy appears archaic and out of sync with the spirit of the times. The outdated system of hereditary power contradicts the principle of popular sovereignty, upon which modern democratic states are built. The United Kingdom, Canada, and other countries where monarchy persists should consider its peaceful abolition and transition to a full republican form of government.
Aristocracy and Its Incompatibility with Democratic Values
Aristocracy is a relic of the feudal past, where power and privileges were inherited rather than earned through labor and contributions to society. In countries that maintain a monarchical system, the elite continues to enjoy special privileges that are inaccessible to ordinary citizens. This violates the principles of fairness and equal opportunity.
Abolishing the monarchy and aristocratic privileges would create a society where individuals are judged based on their merits rather than their lineage. In a democratic state, it is unacceptable for someone to have special rights simply due to family ties with the royal family.
Canada's Colonial Status: A Relic of the Past
The fact that Canada is still considered a constitutional monarchy and formally subordinated to the British monarch seems anachronistic in the 21st century. Although real power is concentrated in the hands of the Canadian Parliament and government, the legal connection to the British Crown remains. The Governor General of Canada, appointed by the monarch, symbolizes this outdated dependency.
Many Canadians question why their country, which possesses full political independence, must maintain formal ties with the British Crown. This symbolic status only complicates Canada's transition to a full-fledged republic, where the head of state would be elected by the citizens rather than appointed by birthright.
Oath to the King: A Humiliating Tradition
In countries where monarchy persists, new citizens, civil servants, and military personnel are required to swear allegiance to the monarch. This is particularly strange in a democratic society, where primary loyalty should be directed toward the people and their democratically elected institutions. Why should people living in free countries swear allegiance to a monarch who holds their position not through merit but by birthright?
Such a requirement contradicts the principles of freedom of conscience and democratic choice. In a republic, oaths should be made to the constitution and the people, not to a hereditary ruler.
The Path to a Republic: Peaceful and Democratic Reform
Abolishing the monarchy does not mean destroying traditions or rejecting historical heritage. It is a step forward toward a fairer and more progressive society. Many countries have already taken this path peacefully and democratically, replacing the monarchical form of government with a republican system led by an elected president.
To make this possible, the following steps are necessary:
Holding a referendum where citizens can express their opinion on the monarchy.
Constitutional reform to replace the monarch with a democratically elected head of state.
Elimination of aristocratic privileges and ensuring equal rights for all citizens.
It is time to acknowledge that monarchy is an outdated institution that no longer aligns with modern democratic standards. In a world that values freedom, equality, and popular sovereignty, hereditary rule should remain a thing of the past.