ALEXANDER GRIBANOV, PROGRAMMER

It's a hard question. We think we are living in a democratic state. Democracy should guarantee freedom of choice. The opinion of everyone should be taken into account, even if it is in conflict with the interests of the majority. There is no ideal democratic state in the world, but I think that Australia is more democratic than other countries because it is not so political and it seems to me that people's lives there are not very limited by the state. Maybe it isn't true, but that's what I think.

LIDIYA TOLMACHEVA, ART DIRECTOR

First of all, democracy is freedom of thought and financial freedom. It's when nobody prevents other people from doing what they want; I mean, not preventing them from doing good. Democracy is when everyone is left alone to do the things God wants them to do. When that happens, we will live by our conscience and religious laws, by the 10 Commandments. That is what democracy means to me.

MAXIM OREKHIN, TEACHER

Democracy lets everyone realize their capabilities and protects human rights. I think we live in a democratic state, and we have those rights laid out in our legislation. People living under a democratic regime are not limited in their freedom – or, at least, are provided with a decent level of freedom. The opinions of everyone should be considered according to the existing laws. In Russia, minority interests should be represented in the Legislative Assembly that includes the State Duma and the Federation Council.

YEVGENIYA MOKROBORODOVA, STUDENT

Democracy exists only in words. In our country those with a lot of money rule. It also depends on what you compare it with. Compared with the past, we now live in a democratic society. I would like our politicians to thoroughly consider people's opinions. Russians have gotten used to the fact that nobody cares about what they think, which is why they don't even try to fight for their point of view – they know it wouldn't change anything.

OLEG SURAYEV, WAITER

I think democracy doesn't exist. I don't believe that I am living in a democratic state. Democracy doesn't work. It's not possible, and it never will be. Every country is always ruled from the top down. It's like that everywhere in the world. There is no democracy even in the United States. Authorities really control the situation; they just fool people into thinking they have freedom and the opportunity to make changes and express opinions.

VARVARA RAININA, HISTORY TEACHER

Democracy is when people are equal in all their rights and are free. I strongly believe that I live in a democratic country. Compared to Germany, where I lived and where life is easier, Russian citizens are not limited economically. Everyone here has the possibility to be free if he or she would like to be. Each person has an opportunity for economic and personal development. I am very proud that our country is striving towards a higher democratic level.