Which principles are essential to a balanced democracy?

Majority rule and minority rights

Balance of power: No single person has full control - for example, in the US there are the three branches of government

Power to the people: People can voice their opinions and typically the government officials are elected into power by majority vote

Rights: Citizens are granted fundamental human rights, whether they are in the majority or minority. For example, in the US Constitution people are granted the right to freedom of speech and religion.