It is not a word for a dramatic shift from an absolute (though relatively gentle) monarchy with a weak consultative assembly to a constitutionally limited monarchy with a strong, sovereign parliament and an elected president who can remove executive branch officials without entreating the king.

FORBES: Why Is Obama's State Department Uneasy About Democracy?

UAE's Federal National Council, a consultative body that stirs up a modicum of debate but makes no executive decisions, will henceforth be elected after a fashion, whereas at present all are appointed by a committee of senior sheikhs.

ECONOMIST: The United Arab Emirates

Thus, there has been a substantial and sustained consultative efforts towards formulating a National Youth Policy, in partnership with youth NGOs and other civil society groups and the Ministry of Youth and Sports.

UNESCO: Social and Human Sciences