Can democracy be established and function without assurances of freedom of speech and freedom of press?

How can one answer a what if question? I know of no examples of democracy, as most define it, without some "freedom" of the press and speech. Now of course, the terms democracy and freedom are subject to a wide variation of intrepretations. China today claims it is a democracy and has freedom of speech and press. Of course, there are certain limits in the interest of "public safety", as the authorities define that.

In order to answer this question, we need to understand the concepts of democracy, freedom of speech, and freedom of the press.

Democracy is a system of government in which power is vested in the people who participate in decision-making through voting. It is typically characterized by the protection of individual rights and freedoms, including freedom of speech and freedom of the press.

Freedom of speech refers to the right to express opinions, ideas, and beliefs without fear of censorship or punishment. It allows individuals to express themselves freely, criticize the government, and engage in public debate.

Similarly, freedom of the press ensures that journalists have the right to report news and express their opinions without undue interference from the government. It acts as a check on government power by informing the public and providing a platform for different perspectives.

Now coming back to the question, it is generally accepted that democracy is built upon the principles of freedom of speech and freedom of the press. These freedoms are considered fundamental to the functioning of a democratic society because they enable citizens to participate in decision-making, hold their government accountable, and ensure that diverse voices are heard.

Without assurances of freedom of speech and freedom of the press, democratic systems can be compromised. Censorship, restrictions on the dissemination of information, and suppression of dissenting views can undermine democratic processes and lead to authoritarianism or dictatorship.

However, it is important to note that the establishment and functioning of democracy depend on a variety of factors, including the political, cultural, and historical context of a country. While freedom of speech and freedom of the press are crucial, other factors such as political institutions, rule of law, and active citizen participation also contribute to a healthy democratic system.

In summary, while it is theoretically possible to have some form of "democracy" without assurances of freedom of speech and freedom of the press, it is widely believed that these freedoms are essential for a democracy to thrive and ensure the active participation and well-being of its citizens.