Declining US democracy emboldens global authoritarians

The International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (IDEA) reported that the decline of US democracy to its lowest level in 50 years is inspiring hardline leaders worldwide. Major indicators of US democracy, such as press freedom and judicial independence, hit their lowest points in 50 years. This has weakened confidence in multilateralism and emboldened authoritarian leaders and populists.

Idea secretary general Kevin Casas-Zamora suggested that the events of 2020, particularly President Donald Trump's refusal to accept his loss to Joe Biden, have had a global impact in legitimising attacks on electoral credibility. The trend gained momentum following the attack on the US Congress on January 6, 2021. Casas-Zamora also pointed to the usage of arguments that led to the dismantling of USAID by the US government as an example of its influence in other nations, specifically mentioning Serbia's clampdown on civil society organisations.

The organization, established by 14 founding states in 1995, currently has over 30 member states. The US was an observer member but withdrew this year.