Global democracy score hits historic low: report
Briefly

In 2024, the Economist Intelligence Unit's Global Democracy Index revealed that the state of global democracies has hit a historic low, with a score of 5.17. This decline reflects increasing authoritarianism, as over one-third of the global population now lives under such regimes. The U.S. remains classified as a 'flawed democracy' since 2016 despite some inroads in political engagement in 2024. Concerns over public trust and dissatisfaction with political leaders pose risks for future democratic health, particularly in North America. Conversely, Western Europe saw a slight improvement in its index score, highlighting regional disparities.
If insurgents come to power and fail to improve governance and deliver tangible improvements for citizens, there is a risk that disaffection and political [polarization] will grow.
The overall global Democracy Index score has fallen from 5.52 in 2006 to a historic low of 5.17 in 2024, down from 5.23 in 2023.
More than one-third of the world population now lives under authoritarian rule, according to the index.
The U.S. was downgraded from a 'full democracy' to a 'flawed democracy' in 2016, reflecting a decline in public trust and political engagement.
Read at Axios
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