For old-fashioned Democrats and adherents of a vigorous democracy generally, it's a statement of affirmation and hope.

Botswana is blessed with mineral wealth, a relatively small population, vigorous democracy and enlightened environmental policies.

Indeed, the countries that have had the most success in controlling or reducing it (including the U.S.) have all been vigorous democracies.

At the local level, it is a vigorous democracy, with contracts requiring a majority of rank-and-file votes for ratification.

The stated goal is to create a reliable ally with strong institutions and a modern, vigorous democracy.

If we're willing to introduce vigorous, competitive democracies in Iraq, why not do the same at home?

So, far from genuine vigorous democracy being strengthened, it was too often subtly undermined by a new elite of "good Europeans".

I think that is a sign of a vigorous democracy, not something that ought to be condemned.

I would therefore state that only a strong, vigorous and committed democracy will be able to beat it.

Israel is a strong, vigorous democracy at the heart of the Middle East. That gives Israel a superior strength and responsibility.