A global crisis has erupted as democracy’s basic tenets—free and fair elections, the protection of minorities and the media, and the rule of law—are under assault and in retreat. In 2017, 71 countries experienced a net decline in freedom, and the United States retreated from its role as both champion and exemplar of democracy.
The global trend threatens a number of democratic gains and could set back the fight against poverty, inequality, and climate change. It also would undermine the vital institutions of our societies—the labor unions, universities, professional associations, and civil society networks that empower citizens to hold their leaders accountable. This is a serious moment, but there are ways to address it.
For example, democratically elected governments in Macedonia and Mexico are working to root out corruption, strengthen transparency, and reclaim the public trust. The resurgence of civic virtue—honesty, civility, and respect—in politics, media, and academia should be a priority. These are the building blocks of democratic renewal.
The rise of anti-democratic forces must be countered with the strengthening of democratic checks and balances. This means reinforcing judicial independence, codifying procedural norms, and insulating against manufactured majorities. It also means empowering subnational counterbalances and exposing electoral manipulation, corruption, and abuses of power through investigative reporting and grassroots activism. This will erode the legitimacy of authoritarian regimes, and open windows for democratic renewal.
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