Global Democracy Faces Unprecedented Challenges, IDEA Report Reveals

The International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (IDEA) has released a concerning report on the state of global democracy. The organization, founded in 1995 and headquartered in Stockholm, Sweden, has identified 2023 as the worst year for credible elections and parliamentary oversight in nearly five decades.

According to the report, the average voter turnout has decreased from 65.2% in 2008 to 55.5% in 2023. This decline is attributed to various factors, including government intimidation, foreign interference, disinformation, and the misuse of artificial intelligence in political campaigns.

Kevin Casas-Zamora, Secretary-General of IDEA, emphasized the critical role of elections in democracy:

"Elections remain the single best opportunity to end democratic backsliding and turn the tide in democracy's favor. The success of democracy depends on many things, but it becomes utterly impossible if elections fail."

The report reveals that one in three elections is now being disputed, with nearly 20% of elections between 2020 and 2024 seeing losing candidates or parties rejecting the results. This trend is particularly concerning as it undermines the foundation of democratic processes.

IDEA's Global State of Democracy Indices, which cover 158 countries from 1975 to the present, indicate that 47% of nations have experienced a decline in key democratic indicators over the past five years. This marks the eighth consecutive year of global democratic backsliding.

Regional trends vary:

• Africa: Generally stable, with notable declines in the Sahel region, particularly in Burkina Faso.
• Western Asia: Over a third of countries performed poorly.
• Europe: Widespread declines in aspects like rule of law and civil liberties, with improvements in Montenegro and Latvia.
• Americas: Mostly stable, but countries like Guatemala, Peru, and Uruguay have experienced declines.
• Asia-Pacific: Minor declines or stability in most countries, with improvements in Fiji, the Maldives, and Thailand. Significant declines in Afghanistan and Myanmar.

The report highlights the complex challenges facing democracy worldwide. From the unrecognized Taliban rule in Afghanistan to the ongoing civil war in Myanmar since 1948, the global landscape of governance remains turbulent.

As we approach the one-year mark since this report's release, it's crucial to recognize the importance of free and fair elections in maintaining democratic systems. The international community must work together to address these challenges and strengthen democratic institutions worldwide.