Consider This from NPR: In a Year of Global Elections, What Did We Learn About the State of Democracy?

Release Date: December 22, 2024

In the December 22, 2024 episode of NPR's "Consider This," host Scott Detrow delves into a comprehensive analysis of the global electoral landscape over the past year. Titled "In a Year of Global Elections, What Did We Learn About the State of Democracy?", the episode explores the outcomes of major elections worldwide and examines what these results reveal about the current state of democracy amidst rising populism and institutional distrust.

Global Electoral Overview

The year 2024 was marked by an unprecedented surge in electoral activities, with over 4 billion people—approximately half of the world's population—participating in major elections across various continents. This global electoral fervor unfolded against a backdrop of growing concerns among experts about democratic backsliding and the resilience of democratic institutions.

Scott Detrow (00:00):

"Over the past year, you have heard us talking again and again about high stakes elections all around the world."

Key Regional Elections and Outcomes

South Asia: Bangladesh, India, and Pakistan

Bangladesh: The elections in Bangladesh highlighted the fragility of democratic institutions. Diya Hadid, NPR’s South Asia correspondent based in Mumbai, revealed that the elections were manipulated to secure former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s continued rule. However, widespread protests led to her ousting, and Bangladesh is now under transitional rule led by Nobel laureate Mohammed Yunus, with hopes pinned on free and fair elections next year.

Notable Quote: Diya Hadid (04:19):

"Elections can be used as a fig leaf for autocracy and how that can backfire."

India: India, the world's largest democracy, saw the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) retain power amid allegations of democratic erosion. Critics pointed to the BJP's Hindu nationalist rhetoric, which included scaremongering about India's Muslim minority, undermining their status as equal citizens.

Pakistan: Similarly, Pakistan’s elections were marred by widespread allegations of vote rigging. Diya highlighted a perception among South Asian populations that the United States was no longer a steadfast advocate for democratic ideals, citing the State Department's ambiguous stance on Pakistan's electoral integrity.

Notable Quote: Diya Hadid (05:14):

"The US isn't really paying even lip service to democratic ideals as it once used to."

Latin America: Venezuela and Mexico

Venezuela: John Otis, NPR’s Latin America correspondent based in Bogota, reported a catastrophic electoral process in Venezuela. Incumbent Nicolás Maduro was accused of blatant electoral theft, disregarding clear opposition victories and leading to severe crackdowns on protesters. Despite strong U.S. pressure and sanctions, Maduro’s regime, bolstered by support from Russia and China, remains entrenched, signaling waning American influence in the region.

Notable Quote: John Otis (06:56):

"Maduro has been able to survive US sanctions thanks to help from authoritarian regimes in Russia and China."

Mexico: In contrast, Mexico witnessed a historic election with Claudia Scheinbaum becoming the country’s first female president. Her victory was perceived as riding her predecessor’s popularity into office, indicating a complex interplay between progress and entrenched political dynamics.

West Africa: South Africa and Nigeria

South Africa: Emmanuel Akinwotu, NPR’s West Africa correspondent from Lagos, discussed South Africa’s pivotal election where the long-dominant African National Congress (ANC) lost significant support. Despite the ANC's powerful liberation legacy, voters expressed disillusionment with rampant corruption, high unemployment, and unmet promises, reflecting a broader continental trend of skepticism towards incumbent parties.

Notable Quote: Emmanuel Akinwotu (08:36):

"People were determined to cast their ballots and to have an impact. But there was also a lot of sadness just about the perceived failure of the ANC."

Nigeria: A similar pattern emerged in Nigeria, where the All Progressives Congress (APC) faced declining transparency in elections since its rise to power in 2015. Emmanuel noted the challenges posed by entrenched political cultures that hinder meaningful change despite voter dissatisfaction.

Notable Quote: Emmanuel Akinwotu (11:40):

"There was a real anticipation about having a moment in South Africa where the ANC wouldn't be as powerful as they'd been before."

United States: A Reflection of Global Trends

The United States mirrored global electoral trends with former President Donald Trump defeating Vice President Kamala Harris in a contentious election. This victory underscored a populist shift and dissatisfaction with incumbent leadership, aligning with global sentiments of anger toward established institutions and leaders.

Notable Quote: Scott Detrow (01:42):

"Former President Donald Trump defeated Vice President Kamala Harris, who had replaced the unpopular President Joe Biden on the Democratic ticket."

Common Themes and Challenges to Democracy

Across different regions, several overlapping themes emerged:

1. Manipulation of Democratic Processes:

   • Bangladesh and Venezuela exemplify how elections are manipulated to consolidate power, undermining genuine democratic choice.

2. Voter Distrust and Demand for Change:

   • South Africa and Nigeria showcase widespread voter frustration with entrenched parties, yet political cultures often impede substantial change.

3. Impact of External Influences:

   • The diminishing influence of the United States in regions like Latin America highlights how authoritarian allies like Russia and China can sustain undemocratic regimes.

4. Role of Political Culture and Historical Legacies:

   • South Africa’s ANC struggles illustrate how historical legacies can both inspire and constrain political transformations.

Notable Quote: John Otis (11:13):

"Maduro's Socialist Party... used the tools of democracy to slowly chip away at democracy, to get rid of checks and balances."

Concluding Insights

The 2024 global elections provided a stark illustration of democracy’s precarious state. While some regions like Mexico achieved historic milestones, the overarching narrative points to significant democratic erosion influenced by populism, institutional distrust, and external geopolitical pressures. Experts warn that unless these trends are addressed, democracy may continue to face substantial threats worldwide.

Scott Detrow (12:32):

"We weren't alone...what this year's elections around the world say about the state of democracy at large."

This episode of "Consider This" offers a critical lens on the evolving dynamics of global democracies, urging listeners to reflect on the resilience and future of democratic institutions in an increasingly polarized and volatile world.