What is Democracy and Democratic Backsliding?
Historical Background
Key Points
7 points- 1.
Key Characteristics of Democracy: Free and Fair Elections, Rule of Law, Protection of Human Rights, Separation of Powers, Freedom of Speech and Assembly, Accountability and Transparency.
- 2.
Indicators of Democratic Backsliding: Electoral manipulation, Suppression of dissent, Weakening of independent institutions (judiciary, media), Constitutional amendments to consolidate power, Militarization of politics.
- 3.
Often involves a shift from liberal democracy emphasizing individual rights and freedoms to illiberal democracy where elections exist but civil liberties are curtailed.
- 4.
Can lead to authoritarianism or military rule, as seen in Myanmar.
- 5.
Impacts international relations by challenging global norms of governance and human rights.
- 6.
Requires strong civil society and independent media to resist backsliding.
- 7.
Constitutionalism adherence to a constitution as the supreme law is a cornerstone of stable democracies.
Visual Insights
Democracy & Democratic Backsliding: A UPSC Perspective
This mind map illustrates the core components of democracy, the indicators of democratic backsliding, its consequences, and mechanisms of resistance, linking these concepts to UPSC syllabus areas.
Democracy & Democratic Backsliding
- ●Democracy: Core Principles
- ●Democratic Backsliding: Indicators
- ●Types & Outcomes
- ●Resistance & International Response
Recent Developments
5 developmentsGlobal decline in democratic freedoms for 17 consecutive years (Freedom House report).
Myanmar's 2021 military coup overturned the democratically elected government, leading to widespread protests and civil war.
Rise of populist leaders and nationalist movements in various parts of the world contributing to democratic erosion.
Challenges to electoral integrity and disinformation campaigns in established democracies.
International efforts to support democratic transitions and condemn coups, often through sanctions and diplomatic pressure.