democratization
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democratization
The process of introducing, developing, or strengthening democratic structures, principles, and behaviors in a state, organization, or society.
Die Demokratisierung Osteuropas nach 1989 war ein historischer Wendepunkt.
The democratization of Eastern Europe after 1989 was a historic turning point.
The word can be easily broken down: 'Demokratie' (democracy) + '-isieren' (to make something a certain way) → 'demokratisieren' (to democratize) + '-ung' (process). So it describes the process of making something democratic.
Die Demokratisierung ist ein langer und komplexer Prozess.
Democratization is a long and complex process.
To say what is being democratized, you usually use the genitive or the preposition 'von' + dative. The genitive is somewhat more formal.
Die Demokratisierung der Arbeitswelt ist ein wichtiges Thema.
The democratization of the working world is an important topic.
The context makes clear which meaning is intended. If it is about states, societies, or politics, the political meaning is meant. If it is about knowledge, technology, or culture, the figurative meaning of making something accessible is meant.
Die Demokratisierung des Landes dauerte viele Jahre.
The democratization of the country took many years.
In a political context, 'Demokratisierung' (democratization) is often combined with verbs such as 'vorantreiben' (to advance), 'unterstützen' (to support), 'fordern' (to demand), or 'beginnen' (to begin).
Viele Organisationen unterstützen die Demokratisierung in der Region.
Many organizations support democratization in the region.
spread / distribution
'die Verbreitung' and 'die Demokratisierung' can both have to do with something reaching many people. 'Verbreitung' mainly describes information, ideas, or other things being passed on and reaching many places or many people. In a figurative sense, 'Demokratisierung' means more than that: something becomes accessible and usable for many people, not just for a small group. The words can be confused when knowledge or technology 'comes to many people'. If only the passing on or spread is meant, 'Verbreitung' fits. If access for many people is the focus, 'Demokratisierung' fits better.
Kostenlose Onlinekurse fördern die Demokratisierung von Bildung.
Free online courses promote the democratization of education.
Die Verbreitung der Nachricht ging in den sozialen Medien sehr schnell.
The spread of the news was very fast on social media.