The Great Backlash and Its Implications for Democracy

In recent years, there has been a rising tide of disillusionment and resistance against progressive ideals and political elites around the globe. This phenomenon, called the?Great Backlash, reflects a rejection of multiculturalism, diversity mandates, and the perceived imposition of progressive values. From Donald Trump's re-election in the United States to the far-right movements gaining strength in Europe, the world is witnessing a coordinated reaction against the evolving status quo.??

Recent Roy Morgan?research findings provide a compelling example of this backlash in Australia, where over one million citizens feel disillusioned, disaffected, and disconnected from government and authority. This group is indicative of a broader social and political sentiment growing across the country and of a global movement that has profound implications for the future of democracy.

Roy Morgan Findings: Australia as a Microcosm

The Roy Morgan research highlights a significant cohort predominantly holding traditional beliefs and seeing themselves as getting a 'raw deal' in life. Their sense of alienation grows steadily. The findings point to a clear divide between the so-called 'Canberra bubble' and those living in regional and remote areas, particularly in places like Alice Springs and outer suburban regions like southwest Sydney. And they’re growing: doubling since before the pandemic, increasing from a little over half a million in December 2019 to more than a million by the end of 2023.

This divide mirrors broader global trends of disaffection and alienation, particularly in areas facing economic hardship and social challenges.

The sentiment among these Australians resonates with what was witnessed during the?Brexit referendum?in the United Kingdom, where millions of disenfranchised citizens voted to leave the European Union—not as a well-reasoned policy decision but as an emotional backlash against perceived authority and elitism.

The parallels are stark: When people feel invisible, unheard, or forgotten, they are more likely to make reactive, emotionally driven decisions, which has significant implications for the stability of democratic institutions.

Global Examples of the Backlash

The?United States?provides another vivid example of the Great Backlash, as demonstrated by Donald Trump's re-election. His support base is anchored in anti-establishment, nationalist, and conservative ideologies, often accompanied by a rejection of traditional political norms. Many Americans see themselves as victims of globalisation and progressive policies, and Trump's rhetoric resonates with those disillusioned by the so-called Washington elite.

Across?Europe, far-right movements are becoming increasingly mainstream, with countries like Sweden, the Netherlands, Italy, and Hungary witnessing significant shifts toward nationalist and anti-immigration policies. These movements are often driven by fears of losing national identity and a backlash against progressive social norms. Similarly,?the New Zealand conservative government's pushback against its foundational First Nations treaty signifies a growing resistance to minority rights initiatives, reflecting a broader?fatigue with diversity-driven agendas.

In?Latin America, Brazil's recent political turmoil, marked by mass protests and attempts to overturn electoral outcomes, echoes the disillusionment seen elsewhere. Many Brazilians blame their leaders for economic instability and a perceived disconnect from traditional values. Likewise,?India?under Narendra Modi has seen a rise in Hindu nationalism, driven by resistance to Western progressive influences and a desire to reassert traditional identity.

Implications for Global Democracy

The implications for global democracy are profound and multifaceted. The?rise of populism?is one of the most apparent consequences of the Great Backlash. Populist leaders present themselves as anti-change and champions of the disenfranchised, often undermining democratic norms and institutions to consolidate power. This erosion of political norms weakens the foundations of democracy as institutions that safeguard freedoms are bypassed or dismantled. This is what Donald Trump promises.

The?polarisation and erosion of social cohesion?are deeply concerning. As the gap between the global elite and disaffected citizens widens, political discourse grows increasingly adversarial. This environment fosters intolerance, stifles meaningful dialogue, and reduces the potential for compromise—an essential element for effective democratic governance.

The rejection of progressive ideals, frequently framed as resistance to political correctness and diversity mandates, has led to a significant rollback in?minority rights?and the weakening of inclusive policies.

The backlash against gender gains is particularly evident, with vocal resistance to women's rights, as exemplified by the rise in young male followers of figures like Andrew Tate, who promote hyper-masculine and misogynistic ideals. Female leaders also face significant backlash, reflecting a broader resentment towards gender equity initiatives and a drive to re-establish traditional gender roles. This backlash has been especially noticeable since the?#MeToo movement, which, while empowering many survivors of abuse, also triggered a counter-movement among those who felt threatened by its implications for power dynamics and gender relations.

Moreover, disillusioned citizens who feel estranged from their governments are more willing to support authoritarian alternatives. This shift threatens the health of democracies worldwide, as soaring distrust in institutions leads to reduced voter turnout, political apathy, and increased acceptance of authoritarian measures.

Another significant consequence is the?impact on global governance. Democracies typically support international cooperation and multilateral agreements. However, as disaffected populations resist globalisation and shift towards nationalism, there is a growing reluctance to engage in global efforts to tackle transnational challenges such as climate change, world poverty, pandemics, and migration.

But Are Progressives Up for the Fight?

When progressive activists make social leaps forward, such as the US legalisation of abortion rights in Roe v. Wade, they think that these gains are secure and immutable. They’re increasingly shocked to find that the Great Backlash can undo everything. Hard-fought victories can quickly become battlegrounds once more, revealing the fragility of progress in the face of organised resistance.?

The Great Backlash has revealed that socially progressive citizens and those on the left of politics, adept at driving forward social change and generating momentum, are often ill-equipped for the defensive strategies needed on this rapidly evolving battleground. Their focus on visionary advancements—such as civil rights, environmental protections, and gender equality—has left them vulnerable to organised and reactionary opposition. In this new landscape, the left’s inability to consolidate and protect advances exposes a critical weakness.

In summary, the Great Backlash represents an existential threat to the stability and health of democracies worldwide. The disillusionment and frustration of those who feel left behind by globalisation and progressive policies are fuelling a movement that actively undermines inclusivity, tolerance, and the very institutions of democracy itself. This backlash has profound implications for women, progressive social and political institutions, and minority rights, posing a severe risk of reversing decades of progress.

We are seeing a retreat from democratic norms, a rollback of rights, and an emboldening of authoritarian ideals. The question now is whether we have entered a new world order—one where a forceful rejection of progressivism is systematically eroding the values of equality, openness, and cooperation.?

Dr Ross Honeywill is a social scientist and internationally published author. As CEO of the Social Intelligence Lab, he works with former executives and data scientists to deliver profitable growth for world-leading brands in Australia and North America.