Democratic backsliding refers to the gradual erosion or weakening of democratic institutions, norms, and practices within a country. This process often involves the undermining of checks and balances, restrictions on political freedoms, attacks on the independence of the judiciary and the media, electoral manipulation, and the concentration of power in the hands of the ruling elite.
Democratic backsliding can occur in various forms, ranging from subtle changes to more overt authoritarian measures. It is often driven by political leaders or parties seeking to consolidate power, silence dissent, or undermine democratic accountability.
Unfortunately, democratic backsliding has been observed in various parts of the world in recent years. Some notable examples include:
Hungary: Under the leadership of Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, Hungary has seen significant democratic backsliding, including the weakening of judicial independence, restrictions on media freedom, changes to electoral laws favouring the ruling party, and attacks on civil society organizations.
Poland: The ruling Law and Justice party (PiS) in Poland has been accused of undermining the independence of the judiciary, exerting control over state media, and introducing controversial changes to electoral laws that critics argue could weaken democratic institutions.
Türkiye: President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s government has been accused of cracking down on political opponents, restricting freedom of expression, and undermining the independence of the judiciary and media through legal and administrative measures.
Venezuela: The government of President Nicolás Maduro has been widely criticized for its erosion of democratic norms, including the suppression of political opposition, manipulation of elections, and restrictions on freedom of speech and assembly.
The United States: While not to the extent seen in some other countries, there have been concerns about democratic backsliding in the United States, including efforts to undermine the integrity of elections, attacks on the media, and polarization of political discourse.
These are just a few examples, and democratic backsliding can occur in other countries as well, often in response to specific political, economic, or social challenges. Efforts to address democratic backsliding typically involve both domestic and international actors, including civil society organizations, political opposition groups, and diplomatic pressure from other countries or international organizations.
Do you think there are effective ways to combat this trend and protect democratic institutions?