Turning the Tide: South Asia’s Democratic Defiance in an Authoritarian Era
South Asia in 2024 emerges as a beacon of democratic resilience, countering the global rise of authoritarianism and showcasing the enduring power of popular participation.
South Asia in 2024 emerges as a beacon of democratic resilience, countering the global rise of authoritarianism and showcasing the enduring power of popular participation.
As Brazil’s Supreme Federal Court (STF) grows in power, its role has become an increasingly divisive topic. Confrontations with former President Jair Bolsonaro, as well as several of his allies, have kept the Court at the forefront of public discourse. While supporters view the STF as safeguarding a democracy under attack, critics argue that the Court has overstepped its mandate and amassed too much authority.
The erosion of democracy in Peru has reached critical levels, propelled by controversial legislative measures and governance marked by unprecedented unpopularity. The recent amendments to the constitution, including the reinstatement of a bicameral Congress against overwhelming public rejection, underscore a widening disconnect between elected officials and the electorate. Moreover, the repeal of crucial measures aimed at combating illegal mining highlights a dangerous trend favoring organized crime over environmental and public safety concerns. As thousands of Peruvians seek refuge abroad amid economic downturns and rising insecurity, the urgency for profound political and constitutional reforms cannot be overstated. The international community must play a pivotal role in supporting free and fair elections, ensuring the independence of electoral and judicial institutions, and fostering inclusive dialogue among diverse social sectors. Only through concerted efforts can Peru regain its democratic footing and prevent further turmoil that threatens to destabilize the nation.
In June 2024, Bolivia faced a dramatic yet unsuccessful coup attempt led by General Juan José Zúñiga, exposing deep fractures within the nation’s political landscape. This event highlighted the ongoing rivalry between President Luis Arce and former President Evo Morales, intensifying internal divisions within the ruling Movimiento al Socialismo (MAS) party. As Bolivia approaches the critical 2025 elections, the country grapples with severe economic challenges, including high inflation, a shortage of US dollars, and declining natural gas production. These economic hardships, coupled with political instability, raise critical questions about Bolivia’s future. Will MAS reconcile its internal differences to present a unified front, or will internal conflicts pave the way for the right-wing opposition to regain power? The ability of Bolivia’s leadership to address these challenges will be crucial in determining the nation’s trajectory towards stability and prosperity.
Slovak Prime Minister survived an assassination attempt, yet Slovak democracy is still on life support.
This text explores the recent success of the far-right in different national elections in Europe to try and determine whether this might translate into a far-right “wave” at the next EU parliamentarian elections.
Slovak voters chose a pro-Russian President and risk their standing within the European Union and the West.
Croatian President Milanović threatens to violate the national constitution and run for Prime Minister, yet refuse to step down as President. He also dismisses the Constitutional Court ruling telling him it is unconstitutional and effectively bans him from running without stepping down as President by calling the decision irrelevant.
Silvio Berlusconi, former Italian Prime Minister, businessman, and media tycoon, passed away in June 2023, but left a legacy of populist politics emulated globally by leaders such as Boris Johnson and Donald Trump.
The rise of Viktor Orbán’s right-wing populist party, Fidesz, in Hungary in 2010 has led to tension and conflict between Hungary and the EU. The Hungarian government’s numerous legislative acts undermine democracy, human rights, and the freedoms of its citizens, posing a pressing issue for both Hungarian citizens and the EU. The EU faces obstacles in holding Hungary accountable for its actions, but prolonged inaction could lead to increasingly severe consequences.