Democracy Forum in Athens: Experts Tackle Global Challenges
- Experts at the Democracy Forum in Athens are examining the challenges facing democracies globally.
- Elections in about 60 countries this year will test the resilience of democratic values against rising extremism.
- The discussions highlight the risk of democratic backsliding, where leaders undermine institutions to preserve their power.
This week, experts gathered at the Democracy Forum in Athens to discuss the pressing global challenges facing democratic systems. With elections occurring in approximately 60 countries this year, including seven of the ten most populous nations, the forum aims to assess the resilience of democracies amid rising extremist and populist movements. Analysts highlight that many citizens are disillusioned with liberal democracy due to factors such as slow economic growth, job losses from automation, and concerns over migration and national identity. These sentiments are often exploited by politicians who propagate false narratives and appeal to public prejudices. A significant concern raised is the phenomenon of 'democratic backsliding,' where democratically elected leaders undermine democratic institutions to consolidate power, leading to less free and fair elections. Examples of this trend can be observed in countries like Hungary, Turkey, and the United States, where established democracies are experiencing a decline in democratic norms and practices.