We're discussing citizenship in one of the classes - posing the question if the right to vote is in fact a right or an obligation?

Of course it is a right in a democratic society, but many also claim that it is our responsibility as citizens to participate acitively by voting.

However, in many Latin American countries they actually take the obligation thing a step further. In Ecuador you get a voting certificate to prove that you have participated and voted - and for every election you neglect to vote in, there will be a fine. Even more amazing - if you don't vote and hence don't have the certificate, you are not allowed to leave the country, but will be stopped at the border/passport control.

Maybe that is necessary in countries where democracy is too young and too fragile to be taken for granted?