2024 Elections Test Global Democracy as Authoritarianism Rises

In a comprehensive examination of global democratic health amid 2024’s electoral milestones, DW News delves into the implications of this pivotal year for democracy worldwide. With nearly half the world’s population participating in elections across various continents, the stakes are high for both established and emerging democracies. From the resilience of Taiwan’s electoral system under Chinese pressure to the democratic backsliding concerns in India under Narendra Modi’s tenure, and from South Africa’s electoral reforms to Mexico’s potential authoritarian drift, the report underscores the fragility and resilience of democratic institutions globally. In Europe, the rise of far-right movements poses challenges to the EU’s pluralistic framework, while the upcoming U.S. presidential election could significantly impact global democratic norms and international relations. This analysis signifies a critical juncture for democracy, as nations navigate internal and external pressures amidst a landscape marked by political polarization and the struggle between democratic values and authoritarian tendencies.

• A global examination of the health of democracy in the year 2024, highlighting elections across Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas.
• In Taiwan, the resilience of democracy under Chinese pressure is noted, with a focus on the clean and fair conduct of elections despite geopolitical tensions.
• Concerns over democratic norms being undermined in India, with Narendra Modi’s majoritarian governance style and the pressures facing minorities, especially Muslims.
• South Africa anticipates its most competitive election since the end of apartheid, with new parties and independent candidates aiming to rejuvenate democracy amid disillusionment.
• Mexico’s election could reinforce the government’s current trajectory towards weakening democratic institutions, with Claudia Sheinbaum, seen as a continuation of the current administration, likely to win.
• The rise of the far-right in Europe challenges the EU’s democratic fabric, with populist policies potentially influencing mainstream politics.
• The U.S. presidential election presents a stark choice for American voters, potentially impacting global democratic institutions and international relations.
• Throughout these electoral processes, concerns about authoritarian drift, the erosion of democratic institutions, and political polarization are prevalent.
• The report underscores the importance of citizen engagement and the resilience of democratic systems against internal and external threats.
• Despite challenges, there remains cautious optimism about the capacity of democracies to self-correct and uphold democratic values against authoritarian tendencies.

DW News is a global news TV program broadcast by German public state-owned international broadcaster Deutsche Welle (DW).

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