Declining US democracy emboldens global authoritarians

The International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (IDEA) has reported that a decline in US democracy indicators is inspiring hardline leaders and populists worldwide. Press freedom, judicial independence, and other key measures of democracy reached their lowest levels in 50 years in the United States. Approximately 57% of the 100 countries surveyed by IDEA experienced a decrease in at least one democratic metric between 2020 and 2025.

IDEA Secretary General Kevin Casas-Zamora suggested that the 2020 US election, President Donald Trump's refusal to accept his loss, and the January 6th Capitol attack all contributed to legitimizing authoritarianism globally. The institute's findings follow the violent January 8th riots in Brazil's parliament, spurred by supporters of former President Jair Bolsonaro.

IDEA, originally established by 14 countries in 1995, now has over 30 member states. The United States, a former observer member, has withdrawn from the organization this year.