A quarter century ago, it seemed that totalitarianism had been vanquished and democracy had won the great ideological battle of the 20th century. But today, democratic institutions and freedoms are in retreat globally. The values democracy embodies—free and fair elections, respect for the rule of law, a vibrant civil society, and a strong media—are under assault from autocracies, illiberal forces, and populist insurgents.
In the United States, Donald Trump’s campaign and presidency have exacerbated existing threats to democracy by manipulating election results, politicizing electoral administration, foreclosing democratic competition through extreme gerrymandering, and undermining the independence of the civil service. Outside the United States, Vladimir Putin’s Russia has stepped up internal repression and engaged in global efforts to sow political discord through disinformation campaigns, cultivate xenophobic parties across Europe, and threaten or invade its neighbors. And in Africa, Zimbabwe’s transition to a civilian government under Robert Mugabe has generated massive waves of refugees and displacement, while Kenya and South Sudan struggle with bloody civil wars that have undermined democracy and stoked regional instability.
The decline of democracy is a complex issue, and many sectors of society will need to step up if it is to be saved. Civic engagement must increase, media must avoid false equivalences and burnish dangerous misinformation, and business must take an active role in supporting democracy. And, of course, the people must take action themselves. That’s why we created this guide to help you take the first steps.