The state of democracy after a year of elections
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Deep Dive
What were the key takeaways from the global elections in 2024?
The 2024 elections saw significant trends, including the rise of populist right-wing parties in Europe, challenges to democratic institutions, and the persistence of authoritarian regimes in some countries. Notably, incumbents often retained power, but with narrower margins, and concerns about the fairness of elections were widespread. Countries like South Korea and Sri Lanka showed that organized opposition could challenge the status quo.
Why did populist right-wing parties gain significant traction in Europe?
Populist right-wing parties in Europe gained traction due to a combination of cultural anxieties, identity politics, and economic grievances. These parties successfully framed elections around issues like immigration and cultural change, tapping into a sense of status anxiety among voters. The rise of social media also lowered barriers to entry for these parties, allowing them to bypass traditional political structures.
What were the implications of Donald Trump's re-election in the U.S.?
Donald Trump's re-election in 2024 had significant implications for U.S. domestic and international policy. Domestically, Trump faced fewer checks on his power, with loyalists in key government positions and a Supreme Court ruling granting him broader executive immunity. Internationally, his victory emboldened far-right parties in Europe and raised questions about the future of U.S. alliances and multilateral institutions.
How did African democracies perform in the 2024 elections?
African democracies showed mixed results in 2024. Ghana and Botswana experienced electoral turnovers, with Ghana's election featuring a contest between a sitting vice president and a former president. Senegal also saw a new, young president elected. However, many African democracies faced challenges, including high levels of debt and the need to deliver on economic promises to retain public trust.
What role did social media play in the rise of populism in 2024?
Social media played a crucial role in the rise of populism by lowering barriers to entry for new political movements and enabling targeted messaging. In Europe and the U.S., populist parties used social media to reach younger voters, particularly young men, who were more likely to support radical right-wing parties. Social media also allowed populist leaders to bypass traditional media and directly influence public opinion.
What are the potential consequences of the rise of populist right-wing parties for liberal democracy?
The rise of populist right-wing parties poses a threat to liberal democratic institutions, particularly through the erosion of checks and balances. These parties often oppose independent courts, free press, and minority rights, favoring a majoritarian view of democracy. Countries like Hungary have shown that prolonged populist rule can lead to democratic backsliding, with attacks on institutions and the consolidation of power.
- The Democratic Progressive Party won in Taiwan, but with less than 50% of the vote.
- Bangladesh's election was widely considered unfair, leading to protests and the prime minister's flight.
- Indonesia saw Prabowo win by a large margin, continuing the status quo.
- Pakistan's election was questioned due to the jailing of opposition leaders.
- South Korea's parliamentary elections saw the opposition win.
- Sri Lanka's election marked the end of the Rajapaksa regime and ushered in a new government.
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