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The International Association for Democracy (IAD) is an NGO that works to defend and promote democracy around the globe.
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Democracy - Latest Developments
Togo′s election delayed: Constitutional reform sparks controversy
In Togo, a pivotal decision to delay legislative elections has emerged as a contingent topic in the nation’s political landscape. This move comes from controversy over recent constitutional amendments that have been met with a mix of support and opposition rejecting this change. The crux of the controversy is within the shift of electoral power from the citizen to the legislature, a change that critics argue could undermine the democratic process and the rule of law. The postponement is seen by some as a strategic manoeuvre that could consolidate power within the current political hierarchy, while proponents of the change argue it is a step towards stability. The current situation has sparked a broader conversation on the balance between reform and the preservation of democratic institutions, with the international community monitoring the situation as the events unfold.
Vladimir Putin is “reelected” for a fifth term as president of Russia
Following a campaign for which the outcome seemed unavoidable, Vladimir Putin will remain the head of the Russian state, gathering nearly 88% of votes during the presidential elections that occurred the past 17th of March. The controversy started weeks before the voting day. In addition to the usual criticism regarding the autocratic russian system, Alexe? Navalny, major political opponent and prisoner, died a month prior to the elections, causing a wave of indignation. As often previously seen, the international community condemned the lack of opposition parties, of free media and independent control institutions. Protests and vandalism have been observed across the country, leading to the arrest of at least 74 people. This isn’t without precedent either, as elections often bring contestation from within the country, without, however, destabilizing Putin’s control over the Kremlin.
Democracy Fact
"No one is born a good citizen, no nation is born a democracy. Rather, both are processes that continue to evolve over a lifetime. Young people must be included from birth”
- Kofi Annan
In Türkiye, President Erdo?an’s party faces defeat for the first time in two decades
According to the president himself, it is a turning point in his AKP’s history. On the 31st of March, Türkiye held its municipal elections all over the country. The main opposing party, CHP, claimed 37,5% of votes (against 35,49% for AKP) and many victories including in Istanbul and Ankara, the country’s two biggest cities. Recep Tayyip Erdogan acknowledged the defeat of his party, assuring in a statement that he would “respect the nation’s decision”. On the other hand, the mayor of Istanbul Ekrem Imamoglu mentioned a “victory for democracy” and is considered a prime potential candidate for the next presidential elections. Those results could express a shift in Türkiye’s democratic life. In 20 years of rule, Erdogan’s policy leaped ever closer towards authoritarianism, violations of the rule of law were regularly denounced by human rights organizations.
Turkey reinstates pro-Kurdish election winner Zeydan after days of unrest in the city of Van
Turkey's election authority reversed its decision to annul the election victory of Abdullah Zeydan, a pro-Kurdish candidate, following widespread protests. Zeydan had won the mayoral elections in Van province with over 55% of the vote, but officials initially declared a victory for a candidate from President Erdogan's AK Party, sparking protests and clashes. The annulment was based on Zeydan's prior conviction during a crackdown on pro-Kurdish politicians in 2016. However, the Supreme Election Council overturned this decision leading to celebrations in Van. The incident highlighted tensions in Turkey's political landscape, with the ruling AK Party facing its first nationwide election defeat since 2002. The CHP condemned the annulment, while Istanbul's opposition mayor, Ekrem Imamoglu, criticized the situation in Van and reaffirmed his commitment to democracy.
Haitian President Ariel Henry resigns after gang led insurrection seizes capital
Haitian President Ariel Henry has resigned from office following the gang-led insurrection that prevented his re-entry into the country following a visit to Kenya in February, saying he will leave office following the installation of a transitional council. He had succeeded in securing an agreement with Kenya to send 1,000 officers to help restore peace to the Caribbean state, however, Kenyan officials said on Tuesday that the deployment would be put on hold until a new government was announced.
The gangs, who now control 80% of the capital Port au-Prince, appear unwilling to cooperate with any such transitional government. Jimmy “Barbecue” Chérizier, now considered to be Haiti’s most powerful gang leader, has promised “further chaos” if the international community continues backing a transition, saying that “We Haitians have to decide who is going to be the head of the country and what model of government we want.”
Cybersecurity: UK MPs to be given warnings on threat of Chinese security cyber attacks, possible threat to UK democracy
Britain faces escalating cyber threats from China with recent attacks targeting voter data and key parliamentary figures. Deputy Prime Minister, Oliver Dowden, addresses MPs on the severity of the threat and potential reprisals. The hacking of voter details attributed to Beijing, highlights vulnerabilities within the Electoral Commission, however there is no accountability. All the while, concerns grow over Britain's reliance on Chinese technology evidenced by discussions of a Chinese company investing in a UK gigafactory. Members of the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China are set for a security briefing underscoring the broader implications of cyber warfare. Calls for a tougher stance against China grow, amidst criticisms of the government's perceived leniency. Portraying a strong front remains essential. Finally, the potential investment by a Chinese battery company raises questions about minimizing reliance on Chinese technology.
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PODCAST ALERT!
A podcast that goes into the depth of why democracy works it's worth giving it a try! The podcast interviews experts who study Democracy closely and have expert insights. Democracy Works is produced by the McCourtney Institute for Democracy at Penn State and WPSU Penn State, Central Pennsylvania's NPR station. Take a look!
Nobel Prize Dialogue on the Future of Democracy held in Brussels
On the 5th of March 2024, a Nobel Prize Dialogue took place in Brussels in partnership with the European Research Council to discuss the future of democracy with particular emphasis on the many elections that will take place in 2024. Topics surrounded the impact of social media, artificial intelligence, and public opinion on democracy as well as the role of narrative in building and fortifying democratic foundations in communities across the globe. Speakers included members of the European Research Council, Google executives, and Nobel Prize lectures.
The 3rd Summit for Democracy was held in Seoul, Republic of Korea from 18 to 20 March 2024
On the 5th of March 2024, a Nobel Prize Dialogue took place in Brussels in partnership with the European Research Council to discuss the future of democracy with particular emphasis on the many elections that will take place in 2024. Topics surrounded the impact of social media, artificial intelligence, and public opinion on democracy as well as the role of narrative in building and fortifying democratic foundations in communities across the globe. Speakers included members of the European Research Council, Google executives, and Nobel Prize lectures.
Long term events around the globe
Trump Ballot Ban Struck down by the Supreme Court
On the 4th of March the Supreme Court of the United States ruled that the state of Colorado had been incorrect to rule against the inclusion of Donald Trump on its ballot last year, agreeing unanimously that the move was unconstitutional. The majority (4-3) of the Colorado State Supreme Court had argued that President Trump’s role on January 6th constituted incitement of an insurrection, citing the 14th amendment to the Constitution's provision that “No person shall… hold any office, civil or military, under the United States… who… shall have engaged in insurrection or rebellion against the same.”
The US Supreme Court has now struck down this ruling, arguing that states do not have the authority to enforce this ruling against candidates for federal office, leaving the former President free to appear on ballots in all 50 states. While there was some dissent within the court regarding the long-term implications of the ruling, Justice Barrett argued against the politicization of the case, stating that “All nine justices agree on the outcome of this case. That is the message Americans should take home.”
Senegal confirms new president Bassirou Diomaye Faye
Bassirou Diomaye Faye’s inauguration took place in Senegal on April 2nd, at the age of 44, he is the youngest elected public official in the nation’s 64-year history that has been plagued by coup attempts in recent years. Faye is succeeding former President Macky Sall, who was the target of national scrutiny due to his decision to delay the national election in February, a choice that produced mass protests nationwide. In his inauguration speech, he committed his service to the strengthening of Senegal’s democracy and justice system in addition to addressing corruption and the economy. Ousmane Sonko was named as prime minister, both leaders were serving time in prison two weeks before the election.Faye was accused of defamation while Sonko was facing charges centered around corrupting youth.
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