Global Democracy Faces Decline Amid Election Issues

The International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (IDEA) has reported a significant decline in global democratic quality, marking 2023 as the worst year for free and fair elections and parliamentary oversight since records began in 1975. The report highlights a decline in voter turnout from 65.2% in 2008 to 55.5% in 2023, accompanied by increasing instances of contested election results, foreign interference, disinformation, and the misuse of artificial intelligence in campaigns. Nearly 20% of elections between 2020 and 2024 saw losing candidates rejecting outcomes, further eroding trust in the electoral process. IDEA's Secretary-General, Kevin Casas-Zamora, emphasized the need for urgent action to protect democratic elections, stating that democracy's success depends on credible electoral processes. Despite some improvements, the U.S. remains deeply polarized, with only 47% of Americans believing the 2020 election was free and fair. The report underscores the global trend of democratic backsliding, affecting both established and fragile democracies.