In a year of global elections, what did we learn about the state of democracy?
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Deep Dive
Why did Bangladesh transition from a multi-party democracy to a one-party state in 2024?
The elections were engineered to propel former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina into power, effectively turning Bangladesh into a one-party state.
What was the outcome of the 2024 Venezuelan election, and how did the U.S. respond?
The incumbent, Nicolás Maduro, was accused of stealing the election. The U.S. recognized opposition candidate Edmundo González as the rightful president-elect but Maduro remained in power with support from Russia and China.
How did the 2024 Indian elections impact the perception of democracy in the country?
Critics argue that democracy is being eroded, with the ruling BJP party using scaremongering tactics against Muslims, diminishing their status as equal citizens.
What was the significance of Claudia Sheinbaum becoming Mexico's first woman president in 2024?
Sheinbaum made history as the first female president, riding on the coattails of her predecessor, but other parts of the world saw incumbency as a negative factor.
Why did the African National Congress (ANC) lose support in South Africa's 2024 elections?
The ANC faced backlash due to corruption, high unemployment, and failed promises, leading to a significant loss of support among a young, disillusioned population.
What challenges did the U.S. face in influencing democratic outcomes in 2024 global elections?
U.S. influence waned, particularly in Latin America, where Maduro consolidated power despite U.S. sanctions and recognition of the opposition candidate.
How did the 2024 elections in Bangladesh reflect broader global trends in democracy?
Bangladesh's elections were used as a fig leaf for autocracy, similar to trends where incumbents and political cultures resisted calls for change.
What role did external factors play in the survival of Maduro's regime in Venezuela?
Maduro maintained power with support from authoritarian regimes in Russia and China, despite U.S. pressure and sanctions.
What was the impact of the 2024 U.S. election on global perceptions of democracy?
The U.S. election highlighted a global trend of voters turning against incumbents, with former President Trump's victory contributing to a sense of democratic backsliding.
How did the 2024 elections in South Africa reflect broader African trends?
The ANC's loss of support mirrored a continental trend where incumbent parties faced backlash from young, disillusioned voters.
- High-stakes elections took place globally in 2024.
- Experts are concerned about the global risk to democracy.
- Populism and anger at incumbents are significant factors.
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