The Crisis of Global Democracy
Democracy, long considered the world’s dominant political model, is facing a global reckoning. From electoral manipulation to disinformation and declining public game slot Naga169 trust, democratic governance is under strain across continents.
According to Freedom House, global freedom has declined for 19 consecutive years. In 2025, only 20% of the world’s population lives in what can be classified as “fully free” democracies.
Western nations face internal polarization, while many emerging democracies struggle with institutional fragility. India — the world’s largest democracy — confronts growing criticism over civil liberties and media freedom. In Latin America, populist leaders exploit anti-establishment sentiment, weakening checks and balances.
Technology has deepened the crisis. AI-driven propaganda and micro-targeted disinformation campaigns blur the line between persuasion and manipulation. Social media platforms, once hailed as engines of democracy, are now battlegrounds of control.
Yet, democracy is also adapting. Grassroots movements in Taiwan, Kenya, and Chile are experimenting with digital participation and transparency tools to rebuild trust.
“The idea of democracy isn’t dying,” said political theorist Francis Fukuyama. “It’s evolving under pressure.”
As autocratic governance grows more assertive and liberal democracies question their own resilience, the world stands at a crossroads — between the promise of renewal and the risk of retreat.