Democracy and Democracy Promotion in a Fractured World

After the unipolar moment following 1989, the world quickly entered an era of heightened polarisation and rapid authoritarian resurgence. Democracy has been in retreat globally for almost 20 years. Trust in political institutions is eroding. Democratic principles, values and political culture are being questioned and undermined. However, the demand for participation, inclusive decision-making, the rule of law and accountability remains high around the globe. Democracy in all its varieties remains a powerful idea to unite around.

In this volume, policy-makers, experts from academia and diplomacy as well as democracy activists share their perspectives on some of the challenges democracies face today. They propose innovative new lines of action and discuss rejuvenated, impact-oriented and nuanced approaches to democracy promotion, in a spirit of partnership and adapted to a fractured world.