Globalization, “globalism”, and

democracy promotion

The role of external actors in democratic erosion. How are countries like Russia and
China undermining democracies around the world? How will these influence
operations affect Philippine democracy?

Having the right definition of democracy is essential to restoring it. Whether

intentionally or unintentionally, the term "democracy" has been used to describe states
of all shapes and sizes, from the "Democratic People's Republic" of North Korea to
the most open democracies in Scandinavia. In a joint opinion piece published in
December 2021, the ambassadors of China and Russia to the United States referred to
both of their dictatorships as "democratic.". "The word's misuse is evidence of
democracy's popularity on a global scale. However, this regrettable practice has led to
misunderstanding, making it possible for opponents to simultaneously assert their
support for democracy and refute claims that real democracies are ineffective or
hypocritical.

Additionally, it has contributed to the misconception that all democracy needs is

the holding of elections on a regular basis. But democracy is not just majority rule. In
its purest form, it is a system of government based on the consent and will of the
governed, institutions that are answerable to all citizens, adherence to the rule of law,
and respect for human rights. It consists of a network of interconnected, mutually
reinforcing institutions that ensures those in positions of authority are subject to
checks from both inside and outside the government, such as from independent courts,
an independent press, and civil society. It necessitates being open to changes in
power, with rival candidates or parties fairly competing to rule for the good of the
public at large, not just themselves or the people who voted for them. It establishes a
level playing field so that everyone, regardless of their circumstances of birth or
background, is able to take advantage of the universal human rights to which they are
entitled and engage in politics and government.

Democracy is also more than just an ideal. It is a practical mechanism for self-
improvement that enables individuals to persistently, peacefully strive for that ideal.
The others can be used as tools to strengthen and repair the system when one
component fails. Democracy is so effective at bringing about long-term stability and
prosperity due to this particular and inherent capacity for self-correction. No
democracy exists perfectly in the real world, and those who call for democracy in
places like Cuba and Hong Kong are not calling for perfection. They want the
institutions and liberties that, over time, will enable them to build a better life and a
more equitable society.

There is a grave danger to world freedom. The adversaries of liberal democracy

—a system of self-government where human rights are upheld and everyone is
entitled to equal treatment under the law—are stepping up their attacks all over the
world. Authoritarian governments are now more skilled at appropriating or avoiding
the laws and institutions designed to protect fundamental freedoms and aiding those
who want to do the same. Internal forces have taken advantage of the flaws in long-
established democracies, distorting national politics to advance hatred, violence, and
unchecked power. While authoritarianism is gaining ground in those nations that have
struggled to find a balance between the two, the former is shifting more and more.
The authoritarian model will prevail if those who support democracy do not join
forces to help ensure freedom for everyone as the world order is about to tip.

The current threat to democracy is the result of 16 years of declining freedom

worldwide. Over the past year, 60 countries overall saw declines, while only 25 saw
improvements. The percentage of people living in non-free countries has increased
since 1997, reaching about 38% of the world's population as of today. Only about 20
percent of people now reside in free countries.