Global Democracy Experiences Eighth Year of Decline, Reports International IDEA

The International IDEA has reported an eighth consecutive year of global democratic decline, citing serious issues in election credibility, rising government intimidation, and foreign interference. Voter turnout has plummeted to 55.5%, significantly impacting electoral integrity. The Global Report highlights that nearly half of the world’s countries have seen declines in democratic indicators, emphasizing the necessity of restoring credibility in elections to reverse this worrying trend.

Democracy has witnessed its eighth continuous year of decline globally, as reported by the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA). The organization expressed concern over the deterioration of credible elections and parliamentary oversight—identified as the most significant decline in nearly fifty years. Factors contributing to this decline include government intimidation, foreign interference, disinformation, and the unethical utilization of artificial intelligence during election campaigns. With only 55.5% of the voting-age population casting ballots in 2023 compared to 65.2% in 2008, the very integrity of elections is jeopardized, and one in three elections faces contestation.

International IDEA’s latest Global Report delineates a worrying trend, noting that roughly 47% of assessed countries have experienced declines in crucial democratic indicators over the past five years. Disturbingly, nearly 20% of elections from 2020 to 2024 involved disputed outcomes, often resolved by court appeals. The year 2023 marked the nadir for free and fair elections, amid rising threats of foreign interference and rampant disinformation. This decline is visible across both historically strong democracies and fragile systems worldwide.

The report highlighted that while the African continent maintained overall democratic stability, notable setbacks occurred especially in the Sahel region, such as in Myanmar and Afghanistan, where the rule of law continues to deteriorate. In contrast, some regions like Fiji, the Maldives, and Thailand have shown improvements. The Americas reported relative stability, though countries such as Guatemala and Uruguay have faced challenges to their democratic institutions. The report underscores the need for elections to reverse the trend of democratic backsliding and reestablish faith in governance worldwide.

The persistent decline of democracy globally is an urgent concern highlighted by the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA). This trend is characterized by a significant drop in voter turnout and increasing disputes over election results. The organization’s Global Report on the State of Democracy finds that a substantial number of countries have diminished in essential democratic measures, indicating a systemic crisis affecting democratic principles and institutions across the globe. Factors such as foreign meddling, misinformation, and misuse of technology continue to undermine electoral processes.

In conclusion, the international community faces a severe challenge as democracy experiences its eighth year of decline, marked by reduced electoral participation and increased disputes over election results. The findings of the International IDEA illustrate the complexities and threats to democracy across regions, underscoring the necessity for renewed commitment to electoral integrity and democratic principles. The report serves as a clarion call for governments worldwide to address the causes of democratic backsliding and foster environments conducive to fair, transparent, and credible elections.

Original Source: apnews.com