Global Democracy Means Defending Democracy When It Comes Under Attack

As democracy expands and deepens around the globe, its defenders must recognize that it’s not enough to simply promote its institutions. Global democracy also means a commitment to democratic principles, such as respect for human rights and a preference for democracy over autocracy in international relations. It means defending those values when they come under attack in some countries, including by the very leaders who clamor for a global order that is more responsive to their narrow interests.

It also means making democracy a priority in international organizations and in bilateral partnerships, even when democracies are not in the majority. While short-term security and economic concerns may lead some democracies to accommodate or partner with authoritarian governments from time to time, they cannot overlook the fact that a global tilt toward authoritarianism jeopardizes democracy itself.

In every region of the world, democracy is under assault by leaders who seek unchecked power to advance their own interests. They rationalize their actions by claiming that democracy fails to deliver on its promises of freedom, security and the rule of law. In a world that is increasingly dominated by autocracies, democracy practitioners and civil society need to take the offensive in advancing a positive vision.

Democracy can’t thrive unless its people participate. This includes staying informed about what is being decided “in their name” and making their views known – whether through local government or in international fora like the media, in organizations working on specific issues or by engaging directly with governments to protest bad policies.