Democracy in 2025: What To Watch Around The World

As the world enters 2025, democracy faces complex challenges and opportunities outside the United States. Below are ten key themes shaping global democratic resilience, complete with tangible examples and their broader implications.

1. Democratic Backsliding

Authoritarian trends are undermining democratic norms in countries like Hungary and Turkey, where leaders are consolidating power through judicial and media control. In Hungary, Viktor Orbán’s government has curbed press freedoms and weakened judicial independence. Preserving these pillars is vital for protecting rights and maintaining public trust in governance.

Learn More: State of Democracy Worldwide

2. Digital Surveillance and Privacy

Governments in China, Russia, and elsewhere are increasingly leveraging surveillance technologies to monitor citizens. China’s social credit system tracks and scores behavior, limiting freedoms for those deemed noncompliant. Balancing security needs with individual privacy is critical to sustaining democratic values.

3. Climate Change and Democratic Cooperation

The global climate crisis demands international collaboration. The European Union’s Green Deal exemplifies how democracies can lead in combating climate change while maintaining economic growth. Addressing this crisis collectively reinforces the accountability and adaptability that democracies bring to global governance.

Learn More: Climate Change's impact on the economy, health & world order

4. Refugee and Migration Policies

Mass displacement from conflicts and climate change is pressuring democracies to craft humane, sustainable migration policies. Europe’s struggles with refugee intake, such as the ongoing Mediterranean crisis, highlight the need for unified strategies. Democracies must balance compassion with domestic stability to uphold their ethical commitments.

5. Media Freedom and Disinformation

Independent journalism is under attack in many nations, with countries like India experiencing increasing restrictions on press freedoms. The arrest of critical journalists weakens public accountability. Protecting media freedom is essential for ensuring transparency and an informed citizenry.

6. Rise of Populism vs. Democracy

Populist leaders are reshaping political landscapes in countries like Brazil and the Philippines. Brazil’s political tensions, exacerbated by Jair Bolsonaro’s rhetoric, highlight the challenge of maintaining institutional integrity amid populist appeals. Resisting populism’s divisive tendencies is crucial for stable democracies.

7. Women’s Rights and Political Participation

In many regions, gender inequality persists in politics. Afghanistan’s rollback of women’s rights under Taliban rule is a stark reminder of how fragile progress can be. Expanding women’s representation strengthens democratic legitimacy and fosters more inclusive policy making.

8. Cybersecurity and Election Integrity

Cyber threats are increasingly targeting elections worldwide. Russia’s alleged interference in European elections raises alarms about foreign influence. Investing in secure voting technologies and combating digital interference ensures fair and trustworthy democratic processes.

9. Global South’s Push for Democratic Representation

Countries in Africa and Latin America are advocating for stronger global representation in institutions like the United Nations. Initiatives like the African Union’s push for permanent UN Security Council representation highlight the demand for equity in global decision-making. Greater inclusivity strengthens democratic legitimacy worldwide.

10. Youth-Led Democratic Movements

Young activists are at the forefront of global democratic movements, as seen in Chile’s recent constitutional referendum driven by youth demands for reform. Empowering young voices ensures that democracies remain dynamic and responsive to generational shifts in priorities.

Conclusion: 2025 Predictions For Democracy Around The World

The challenges and debates facing democracies around the world in 2025 are as diverse as they are pressing. From climate change to digital threats, these themes underscore the need for collective action, accountability, and innovation to protect and strengthen democratic governance. By addressing these issues head-on, nations can ensure that democracy remains a robust and adaptable force in an increasingly complex world.