“ Successfully establishing democratic governance in divided societies requires two key elements: power sharing and group autonomy” ( Lijphart, 2004). Country X is a society divided not only ethnically but also religiously, which makes the creation of a stable and lasting democratic state difficult, but not impossible. As Lijphart's quote above states, power sharing and group autonomy are two elements that must be emphasized to develop a stable state. In order for power sharing and group autonomy to be implemented, Country X must have a democratic presidential system. A presidential system is necessary because it allows for fair representation in parliament, a balanced system of regulation and the implementation of fair laws. All these aspects will create a society characterized by power sharing and group autonomy. For Country X to be a stable democracy, a presidential system is the correct institution. “Power sharing denotes the participation of representatives of all significant community groups in political decision-making, especially at the executive level” (Lijphart, 2004). Country X with a population of twenty-five million is made up of a mix of ethnic groups with two predominant races and a small percentage of other races. There are also two predominant religions in the country which create further divisions. To create fewer problems, no religious institution will be implemented in the government. The government will therefore be divided equally across the country's ethnic groups. The presidential system I am basing my government structure on is the United States of America. The government will be composed of an executive power and a legislative power, which the population will elect with some restrictions. F... half the paper... ut punishment. Country X should be modeled after a presidential system like that of the United States because of its success in achieving both power sharing and group autonomy. With a free society, Country X will have four political parties representing the country's conservative, liberal, and business ideals. Furthermore, with freedom numerous other groups will be formed, be they religious, political, sporting or to practice a hobby. With the successful establishment of power sharing and group autonomy, Country X will be able to become a stable and affluent democratic society. Works Cited Barbour, Christine and Gerald C. Wright. Maintaining the Essentials of the Republic: Power and Citizenship in American Politics - CQ Press; 6th edition (28 February 2014) Lijphart, Arend, 2004. Constitutional Design for Divided Societies. Journal of Democracy, vol. 15. No. 2, pp. 96 – 109