| PYQ Relevance: Q) Indian and USA are two large democracies. Examine the basic tenets on which the two political systems are based. (UPSC CSE 2018) |
Mentor’s Comment: UPSC has always focused on major countries like the USA (2018), Russia, and China (2024) as well as minor regions like ‘the Malay Peninsula’ (2017) whenever there are major political or economical shifts at the regional/global level.
India ranks 108th on the Electoral Democracy Index 2023, a decline from its previous position of 100th in 2022. Similarly, the USA ranks 36th and is also facing significant challenges concerning Democratic integrity.
What is the cause of declining Democracy? And how does it affect Worldwide?
Today’s editorial focuses on observations from the 2024 elections that reflect broader trends in global politics — both in the West and the East. This editorial can be used as an example whenever we need to give our analysis on ‘Democratic institutions/strategies and their global impacts’.
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
The 2024 election results, particularly in the United States and India, signify a shift in political dynamics that have left political analysts and voters worldwide alike in a state of astonishment.
How does Donald Trump’s rise to prominence highlight a ‘Democratic Flaw’?
- Erosion of Democratic Norms: There is some evidence of systematically undermining trust in electoral processes, and promoting conspiracy theories about voter fraud.
- His potential return to power raises concerns about authoritarianism and the erosion of checks and balances, threatening democratic governance.
- Populism and Nationalism: Trump’s appeal to populism capitalizes on economic discontent and cultural anxieties, often at the expense of inclusivity.
- His messaging resonates with voters feeling marginalized by globalization, reinforcing societal divisions.
- Demographic Shifts: For the first time in decades, the proportion of white voters increased significantly, favoring Trump. His campaign resonated particularly well with white voters without a college degree, who overwhelmingly identified with the Republican Party.
- Voter Turnout: Trump’s support surged among male voters, while Kamala Harris struggled to replicate Joe Biden’s previous performance among women voters, particularly non-college-educated white women.
What are the challenges faced by the world democracies due to the Authoritarian rise?
- Erosion of Democratic Norms: Democratic institutions are increasingly being undermined by leaders who exploit their power to consolidate control.
- For example, Hungary has transformed from a democratic success story into a state with diminishing civil liberties and media freedoms, becoming a model for authoritarian governance within the EU.
- Political Polarization: The political landscape in countries like the United States has become highly polarized, with populist leaders like Donald Trump questioning the legitimacy of elections and undermining trust in democratic processes.
- This polarization makes it easier for authoritarian figures to gain support by appealing to nationalist sentiments.
- Disillusionment with Political Institutions: Many citizens are losing faith in traditional political parties and institutions, leading to increased support for authoritarian leaders who promise quick solutions.
- For example, this trend is evident in India too, where Political Parties have faced accusations of using anti-terrorism laws to suppress dissent and silence opposition.
- Manipulation of Electoral Processes: Authoritarian regimes often manipulate electoral systems to maintain power. In the U.S., numerous bills aimed at voter suppression have emerged since the 2020 election, reflecting a broader trend of undermining electoral integrity.
- External Influences: Countries like China and Russia actively promote authoritarian values globally, influencing political dynamics like cyber attacks and disinformation campaigns aimed at destabilizing democratic institutions in other nations.
How to address these challenges?
- Strengthening Democratic Institutions: Ensure Free and Fair elections by reinforcing electoral commissions and implementing transparent voting processes. Organizations like the UNDP can help enhance electoral systems and promote inclusive participation
- Invest in the development of Parliaments to ensure they represent diverse interests and maintain checks and balances on executive power.
- Strengthening Media Literacy: Implement comprehensive media literacy programs in schools and communities to equip citizens with critical thinking skills. This empowers individuals to identify and resist disinformation.
- Supporting Independent Journalism: Governments can provide financial support or incentives for independent media outlets to ensure diverse and reliable information.
- Enhancing Transparency and Accountability: Regulate Social Media Platforms: Governments should establish clear platforms to disclose their policies on disinformation and hold them accountable for their role in spreading false information. Self-regulation alone has proven insufficient.
