Democracy globally experienced its worst year in nearly 50 years, with sharp declines in free elections, parliamentary oversight, and voter participation, according to a new report.
The International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA) found that one in three global elections are disputed.
Key factors include government intimidation, disinformation, foreign interference, and the misuse of artificial intelligence.
Data from the Stockholm-based group illustrates a decline in electoral integrity signified by weaponizing distrust and mounting legal challenges.
Voter turnout has also plunged, dropping from 65.2% of eligible voters in 2008 to just 55.5% in 2023.
“Elections remain the single best opportunity to end democratic backsliding and turn the tide in democracy’s favor,” said International IDEA’s Secretary-General, Kevin Casas-Zamora.
“The success of democracy depends on many things, but it becomes utterly impossible if elections fail.”