Decline in Satisfaction with Democracy: A Global Concern
The Blue Marble By NASA/Apollo 17 crew; taken by either Harrison Schmitt or Ron Evans
Democracy Has Evolved Over Time
In recent years, the global sentiment towards democracy has experienced a significant shift. Despite a widespread belief in the merits of representative democracy, dissatisfaction with its implementation is on the rise, particularly in high-income nations. A Pew Research Center survey highlights this growing discontent, providing a comprehensive look at how satisfaction with democracy has evolved over time and what factors contribute to this trend.
A Declining Trend
Since 2017, Pew Research Center has been tracking satisfaction with democracy across 12 economically advanced democracies. The results are concerning. Between 2017 and 2019, satisfaction declined markedly before a temporary rebound in 2021 during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the post-pandemic period has seen a resurgence of dissatisfaction. In 2021, a median of 49% of respondents across these nations were satisfied with their democracy. As of 2024, this figure has dropped to just 36%.
Countries with the Most Significant Declines
Among the 12 countries surveyed consistently, nine have seen a decline in satisfaction since 2021. Notably, six countries—Canada, Germany, Greece, South Korea, the United Kingdom, and the United States—have experienced double-digit drops. This trend underscores a widespread and deepening disillusionment with democratic governance.
Current Satisfaction Levels
Expanding the survey to 31 countries in 2024 reveals that a median of 54% of people are dissatisfied with their democracy, while only 45% express satisfaction. This broader analysis includes nations rated moderately to positively by research organizations such as the Economist Intelligence Unit, Freedom House, and the Varieties of Democracy Project. Countries deemed autocratic or hybrid regimes were excluded.
Regional Variations
The survey reveals stark regional differences in satisfaction levels. In Europe, 75% of Swedes are satisfied with their democracy, compared to a mere 22% in Greece. The Asia-Pacific region shows similar disparities, with over three-quarters of Indians and Singaporeans satisfied, while only 31% of Japanese respondents share this view. In sub-Saharan Africa and Latin America, dissatisfaction is widespread, with over two-thirds of South Africans, Chileans, Colombians, and Peruvians expressing negative views about their democracies.
Factors Influencing Satisfaction
Economic perceptions play a crucial role in shaping views on democracy. Across all 31 nations polled, those who view their national economy negatively are more likely to be dissatisfied with democracy. Additionally, satisfaction is often linked to support for the governing party. In 27 countries, supporters of the ruling party or coalition are more likely to be content with the state of democracy.
Demographic Differences
The survey also highlights demographic differences in satisfaction levels. In countries like Argentina, Chile, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Poland, Spain, and the U.S., individuals with less education are less satisfied with democracy compared to their more educated counterparts. Additionally, in Argentina, Chile, Colombia, Germany, Peru, Singapore, and South Korea, younger adults (under 35) are more satisfied with democracy than those aged 50 and older.
Democratic Decline in the United States
The decline in democratic satisfaction is particularly pronounced in the United States, where democratic erosion manifests in two major forms: election manipulation and executive overreach.
Election Manipulation
Since 2010, state legislatures have enacted laws aimed at reducing voter access, politicizing election administration, and using extreme gerrymandering to foreclose electoral competition. These measures have made it increasingly difficult for certain groups to vote and have skewed representation.
Executive Overreach
The expansion of executive power poses another significant threat to democracy in the U.S. The growing influence of the executive branch undermines civil service independence, especially given the hyperpartisan and gridlocked Congress, which struggles to provide impartial oversight. Judicial impartiality is also in question, further complicating the balance of power.
Recent Developments
The 2020 election highlighted these issues starkly when the sitting president attempted to subvert the election results. This incident, though extreme, is part of a broader trend of democratic backsliding. The United States has seen substantial expansions of executive power, attempts to erode civil service independence, and increasing questions about judicial impartiality.
As Dissatisfaction Grows
The decline in satisfaction with democracy in high-income nations is a critical issue that warrants attention. Economic conditions, political support, and demographic factors all contribute to this trend. In the United States, the issues of election manipulation and executive overreach are particularly concerning. As dissatisfaction grows, it is essential for policymakers and leaders to address the underlying causes and work towards restoring faith in democratic governance.
At Info Decon, we believe in the power of informed dialogue and active civic engagement. We encourage our readers to stay informed, participate in democratic processes, and advocate for changes that can improve the functioning of our democracies. Share your thoughts and join the conversation on how we can collectively enhance our democratic systems.
References
Satisfaction with democracy has declined in recent years in high-income nations
