Crisis and fragility of democracy in the world
https://www.ohchr.org/en/statements-and-speeches/2022/08/crisis-and-fragility-democracy-world
03 August 2022
DELIVERED BY UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet
AT Opening Workshop for the International Association of Jesuit Universities, Boston College; Boston
Session: Status of democracy and human rights in the world
It is my pleasure to join the International Association of Jesuit Universities today. In these complicated and unpredictable times, discussions such as these, among partners like you in the fight for social justice and human rights, are ever more vital.
A glance at the state of the world today reveals a grim picture.
Just as we thought we were slowly emerging from a global health pandemic, the armed attack in Ukraine, and its socio-economic consequences globally, have thrown us deeper into turbulence.
A global food, fuel and finance crisis risks plunging millions into food insecurity and poverty. 1.2 billion people live in countries that are severely exposed and vulnerable to all three dimensions of finance, food, and energy, simultaneously.
Inequalities between and within countries are skyrocketing, threatening COVID-19 recoveries, undermining progress in the implementation of the SDGs and slowing down climate action.
And polarisation both within and between countries continues to grow, the weakening of multilateralism, of the international legal order – and of international law itself, with immense consequences on human rights.
Democracy too is ailing.
In 2021, the level of democracy enjoyed globally by the average person was down to 1989 levels1. This means that democratic gains of the last 30 years have been greatly reduced. Last year, almost a third of the global population lived under authoritarian rule. And the number of countries leaning to authoritarianism is three times that of those leaning to democracy.
The democratic decline is especially evident in Central Asia, Eastern Europe and Asia Pacific, and in parts of Latin America and the Caribbean, through various attacks on the rule of law. For instance, in some countries of Latin America and the Caribbean we have observed attacks on electoral management bodies, on constitutional courts, the media and national human rights institutions, and the use by governments of COVID-19 as an excuse to reduce oversight of public administration.
And trust in institutions is fading.
People feel ignored, like democracy has not fully delivered its promise.
Growing inequalities, as women, minorities, older persons, and others who have traditionally been marginalised are left further behind. These exclusions feed the distrust and cynicism in institutions.
And a lack of transparency in public decision making, or accountability of government or public officials is further eroding people’s trust.
For many, limited civic education and an absence of viable political candidates, in particular with whom young people identify with, compound their feelings of alienation.
Disinformation is used as a tool for autocratic governments to shape domestic and international opinion, at times reaching toxic levels. It fuels hate speech against the marginalised and excluded, and undermines our shared humanity.
Lack of trust in institutions has provided fertile ground for populist leaders and movements, who take the opportunity to pin all blame on “democracy and human rights”.
And thus chip away at human rights, one right at a time.
Some established democracies have then taken a page from the authoritarian playbook, thinking it is the only way to salvage support. They impose restrictions on civic space, on free expression, on media freedom and other rights that are essential for democracy.
A veritable race to the bottom.
And yet, I am also here to share some positive news with you.
Democracy is resilient.
The democratic ideal persists, with a recent study showing widespread approval for representative democracy.2
During the COVID 19 pandemic, democratic practices adapted in innovative ways. Some countries managed to hold elections in exceedingly difficult conditions, for instance by expanding absentee voting mechanisms or early voting procedures.
In addition, social movements for tackling climate change and fighting racial inequalities grew globally – people turned out to make their voices heard, even amidst pandemic restrictions.
This shows people want their voices heard, demanding economic and social systems that work for everybody, and to have a say in the decisions that affect their lives. These protests are an expression of human rights and democratic values, and as such they must be respected and facilitated by Governments.
They should not be perceived as a threat.
On the contrary, enabling spaces for public participation are one of the most effective ways for authorities to understand people’s grievances and make better, informed decisions. Here, your voice in academic spheres to fight for the expansion of spaces for people to participate, in all their diversity, is crucial.
That question of how to transform participation so that it works for people, at all levels, from local to global, is a key question of the future. In his report “Our Common Agenda”, the UN Secretary-General has recognized this challenge, calling for new initiatives to improve the ways of listening to people whom States and international institutions such as the UN are meant to serve.
Demands for human rights and equality, less corruption, concrete action on climate change will continue. And rightly so, as - these are all things that true democracies can and must deliver.
Precisely at this moment of uncertainty and unpredictability, we must remain steadfast in our commitment to democracy and human rights.
In Our Common Agenda, the UN Secretary-General called for a “New Social Contract”, to restore public trust and forge a stronger compact between Governments, people, civil society, business and more, based on equal rights and opportunities for all.
To address the gap between people’s expectations and what governments can deliver a new social contract is needed based on inclusive deliberations in society.
Addressing inequalities, fighting corruption and tackling climate change need to be at the core of the conversation.
Social spending is also critical for promoting equality and strengthening democracy. If national budgets integrate States’ human rights obligations and allocate sufficient resources to cover at least minimum essential levels of economic and social rights for all, they can be a powerful lever for equality.
National spending in social sectors that focuses on accessibility, affordability, and quality of services as well as non-discrimination, including based on gender, strengthens livelihoods and erodes inequality. Increasing such spending keeps more children in school and protects and raises the health and overall standard of living of the population. This is society’s most effective tool to build resilience. This approach, which is grounded in human rights principles, helps build respect for the social contract and reinforces the tenets of democracy.
In addition, democratic institutions need to be strengthened. From electoral commissions to high courts, from local governments to national human rights institutions, from media boards to anti-corruption entities these democratic structures need to be reinforced – including by increasing transparency and independence - so they deliver to the people and trust in institutions is restored.
Independent, rule of law-abiding institutions play a key role in ensuring the necessary checks and balances. They provide the ultimate foundation for stronger and resilient democracies.
To prevent democratic backsliding, political and financial support is critical, to promote public participation, media freedom and civic education. Prioritising investment in these pillars of democracy, and promoting them in political action, will go a long way in addressing some of the issues the world is currently facing.
In line with their international human rights obligations, Governments need to protect and promote the space for people to engage in public affairs, to voice their views and concerns freely, safely and without fear, including though peaceful protests and other forms of civic engagement.
Governments also have a responsibility to promote and protect the freedom of expression, including media freedom, essential tools to tackle disinformation, polarization and hate speech.
Yes, we are living in challenging times. But my experience has shown me that there will always be obstacles; people who, in the name of power, will put spokes in the wheels of democracy, of justice, of equality. And these days, their voices are growing louder.
That’s why our concerted, principled efforts are vital. To come together, by looking to build, and advance. To fight for our common humanity, human rights, and to persevere in our commitment to democracy – in the name of dignity and equality for all.
The Jesuits, including through their academic institutions, have been a force for good in striving for social equality. I know you will play a crucial role in addressing these challenges and I count on you to continue espousing the human rights roadmap to do so.
Many thanks for your attention.
1 https://v-dem.net/media/publications/dr_2022.pdf
V-dem Institute is a reputable research centre in University of Gothenburg.
