The State of Global Democracy
In 2025, democracy stands at a historic crossroads. The last decade has witnessed a sharp acceleration of democratic erosion, often described as a “third wave of autocratization.” Decades of progress have been rolled back, with global democratic levels slipping to points not seen since the late 20th century. Alarmingly, for the first time in modern history, autocracies now outnumber democracies—a clear signal of shifting global power dynamics.
According to recent international indices, there are currently 91 autocratic regimes compared to 88 democracies worldwide. Even more concerning, only 29 nations qualify as liberal democracies, where robust civil liberties and political freedoms are protected. This decline represents a fundamental challenge to the ideals of open governance and human rights.
Geographic Hotspots of Change
Western Europe and North America continue to host a significant share of democratic nations, but these regions have not been immune to rising authoritarian tendencies. Eastern Europe has suffered a dramatic slide into illiberalism, while South and Central Asia have experienced similar regressions. In the Middle East, North Africa, and much of Sub-Saharan Africa, autocratic regimes remain firmly entrenched.
The numbers tell a stark story: approximately 72% of the world’s population now lives under some form of autocratic rule—an unprecedented figure that underscores the depth of the crisis facing democratic governance.
Key Challenges Facing Democracy
Shrinking Civic Space
One of the most troubling trends is the systematic shrinking of civic space. Governments, even in traditionally democratic societies, have enacted laws curtailing the activities of civil society organizations, restricting protest rights, and cracking down on free expression. Over 40 countries have reported serious declines in media freedoms and speech rights just in the past year.
Disinformation and Polarization
The rise of digital disinformation, toxic polarization, and extremist political forces have deeply fractured societies. Sophisticated misinformation campaigns, amplified by social media algorithms, are eroding public trust in democratic institutions and creating fertile ground for anti-democratic narratives.
External Authoritarian Influence
Autocratic powers such as China and Russia have not only consolidated control within their borders but also actively export anti-democratic tactics abroad. By supporting autocratic actors and undermining democratic movements, these powers are reshaping international norms and weakening global democratic influence.
Post-Election Turmoil
The 2024 “super election year” brought billions of voters to the polls, stirring hopes for democratic renewal. However, it also exposed deep political divides, leading to contested electoral outcomes and post-election instability in multiple countries. The legitimacy of elections has increasingly come under scrutiny, raising concerns about the future of democratic transitions.
Civil Society: Guardians of Democracy
Yet, amidst these daunting challenges, civil society remains a critical line of defense. Around the globe, organizations and grassroots movements continue to mobilize in defense of freedoms, human rights, and government accountability.
These groups not only protect vulnerable communities but also foster transparency and justice in the face of repression. A growing trend is the emergence of transnational coalitions that enable activists to share resources, strategies, and solidarity across borders—creating a united front for democracy under siege.
Looking Ahead: Signs of Hope
New Models of Democracy Support
In response to these crises, a wave of innovative democracy-support initiatives has emerged. From revamped international aid models to philanthropic investments targeting local reformers, efforts are underway to craft more adaptive and inclusive strategies for democratic resilience.
Youth and Grassroots Power
Young people and grassroots activists are refusing to give up on democracy. In countries from Latin America to Southeast Asia, youth-led protests and civic campaigns are demanding transparency, justice, and inclusion. These movements are injecting fresh energy into democratic struggles, often at great personal risk.
Roadmaps for Reform
Multi-stakeholder dialogues, democratic renewal roadmaps, and global democracy summits are being launched to generate practical policy solutions. These platforms offer a space for governments, civil society, and private sector leaders to collaborate in safeguarding democratic institutions.
The Road Ahead: Resilience in the Face of Regression
Democracy in 2025 is at a tipping point. While the global picture reveals stark regressions and growing authoritarianism, it also highlights the incredible tenacity of citizens, civil societies, and reformers determined to fight back. The coming years will likely define whether democracy can reinvent itself for a new era—one built on inclusivity, accountability, and resilience. The struggle is far from over, and the hope for a more democratic world remains alive.
