Updates

In a Eurobarometer report, the European Parliament analysed the factors that led European citizens to the polls in the June elections. One of the main factors that led European citizens to the election process to elect members of parliament (MEPs) was the rising cost of living, as 42% of the sample considered it a major issue. Major concerns of the voters are the issues of democracy, the rule of law, as well as the precarious international situation. Issues such as gender equality and the digitisation of the European economy appear to have had less influence, influencing just 7% and 6% of voters, respectively. The report also analyses phenomena such as the disenfranchisement of young people in the electoral process and the lack of trust in politics by non-voters.

Source:

• Euronews

The Mo Ibrahim Foundation's Abraham African Governance Index assesses governance performance in Africa over the decade 2014-2023. The index's trends and performance were analyzed across 54 African countries based on 322 variables and key pillars such as security, rule of law, inclusiveness, human development, etc. Africa's average governance score for rule of law and fairness decreased by 0.7 points in the last decade to 45.9. The score for "executive compliance with the rule of law" decreased by 3.1 points, while the score for "impartiality of the judicial system" decreased by 0.6 points. However, the governance score for "law enforcement" has increased by 5.3 points over the past decade.

Source:

• African Law & Business

In early 2024, a poll showed that the US was a good example for other countries to follow in its "democracy," but not so much in recent years. The three-quarters of respondents from a sample in the United States who hold the above view seem to agree with respondents from other countries such as Canada, the United Kingdom, and Japan. A similar 2023 poll shows the danger of democracy in the US depending on the outcome of the upcoming 2024 presidential election. Republican respondents expressed concerns about democracy in the country if a president supported by the Democratic Party is elected, as well as vice versa.

Source:

• ScienceNews

Hundreds of Tunisians demonstrated in the streets of the capital, denouncing the current President, Kais Said, for violating the freedoms and rights of the people. With Tunisia considered by many to be one of the originators of the Arab Spring of 2011, comparisons are being made between dictator Zine El Abidine Ben Ali and President Said. President Said upon his rise to power in 2019 dissolved the parliament and revised sections of the Constitution. Human Rights Watch said about 170 people are being held in Tunisia for political reasons.

Source:

• France 24

The V-Dem Institute in its recent research shows a significant decrease in the integrity of elections worldwide since 2000. Forty-five countries show significant decreases in the freedom of electoral processes. Key factors in this decline include the spread of misinformation, foreign interference, and political polarization, which undermine public confidence in electoral processes. This erosion of trust threatens the legitimacy of governments and increases social divisions. The survey recommends stricter regulation of disinformation, especially on digital platforms, to protect democratic processes.

Source:

• International IDEA

• ERPS

• World Economic Forum

Freedom House's Freedom in the World 2024 report shows a decline in "global freedom" for the 17th consecutive year, with features such as "authoritarianism" and "repression" increasing in many regions. Out of 195 countries, 57 are classified as "not free," with notable declines in Russia, China, and Iran. Issues such as electoral manipulation, suppression of the press, and the reduction of civil liberties have worsened worldwide. However, countries such as Zambia and Moldova have shown improvements in democratic governance and electoral integrity.

Source:

• Atlantic Council

• DiploCourier

The Economist Intelligence Unit's (EIU) Democracy Index 2023 was released earlier this year, but it is widely referenced in the mid-2024 debates. and political participation. It highlights global democratic backsliding, with the global average light index falling to 5.23, reflecting challenges, especially in hybrid and authoritarian regimes. The Our World in Data Democracy Index, based on EIU data, was updated in mid-2024. This report covers more than 160 countries and highlights that almost 45.4% of the world's population lives in democracies, although only 7 .8% live in "full democracies". Norway, New Zealand and Finland are ranked at the top.

Source:

• Our World in Data

Thousands of protesters are complaining about the government's attempt to overturn the decision of the Constitutional Court. Outside the country's parliament, protesters attempted to break down the gates. The cause of the protests in various parts of Indonesia is parliament's attempt to overturn a court ruling that states parties no longer need 20% representation in regional assemblies to field candidates. Despite the extraordinary constitution of the parliament to propose the suspension procedure due to non-observance of the quorum by the body, Election analysts at the University of Indonesia report on unconstitutionality and "robbing the constitution." (Titi Anggraini, BBC Indonesian).

Source:

• BBC

Mainly far-right groups target migrants who are under the status of asylum seekers, as well as Muslims, after misinformation in the NCRs. After a tragic attack in Southport at a children's event, it was reported on social media that the attacker was an Islamic immigrant. After this fake news was broadcast, protests erupted targeting mosques, migrant businesses and the police in over 20 parts of the country. With the chaos in England, social media companies are being held to account for spreading fake news.

Source:

• Reuters

2024 is a major year for global elections, with half the world's population voting - so where do things currently stand mid-way through the year? A comprehensive approach is needed to protect democratic processes worldwide in an era of misinformation and polarization. In January, the World Economic Forum’s Global Risks Report 2024 warned that diminishing trust, political polarization and a volatile geopolitical landscape could combine to limit cooperation to tackle global risks. The report also highlights how diminishing trust, political polarization and a volatile geopolitical landscape could limit the cooperative potential to tackle global risks. "Against that backdrop, this year of voting will also serve as a barometer for the broader health of democracy and shine a light on new and emerging challenges around misinformation, turnout and electoral integrity. Misinformation and disinformation are key threats identified by the report, which underscored how they relate to elections". “The spread of false information could significantly impact electoral outcomes and government legitimacy,” the report says. “This widespread dissemination of misleading content, facilitated by various tools and platforms, has the potential to exacerbate societal and political divisions.” What’s also new is data and the application of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) to find and analyze public sentiment and voting patterns.

Source:

• World Economic Forum

[...] We can therefore conclude that the populist far-right parties have built their political narrative on the real anxieties of citizens. This is also due to the failure and inability of political systems to highlight problems and seek solutions. A typical case is immigration. For years, governments did not highlight the security implications of the issue, thus giving space to far-right formations to shape the agenda in an aphoristic way, equating immigrants with terrorists and criminals.
The most effective way to deal with the rise of the Far Right, but also of populist anti-government parties in general, is to highlight the problems at their real base and try to solve them. Security is not a policy area that can and should be relegated to the extremes. Of course, this does not mean that we have to go into an extended state of complete securitization. We need a new social contract, a modern political security framework that will respond to threats but will also incorporate the insecurities of citizens. [...]

Article of:

• Triantafyllos Karatrantos, Senior Research Fellow of ISPD, with title "Far right and security", in Kathimerini (Athens).

Source:

• Kathimerini (Athens) [GR]

A demonstration in Kenya turned into a tragedy where the police shot and killed several demonstrators. Despite the president's assurances about the safety of the citizens, at least 5 protesters were killed. The reason for the demonstration was the proposal of a law to increase taxes for which the demonstrators tried to enter the Parliament building. With the opposition calling for President Ruto's resignation, the government is trying to raise funds from citizens' taxes, which are experiencing economic shocks due to inflation, the pandemic and drought.

Source:

• Reuters

For the first time, the world has experienced an overall decline in social progress, called a'recession of social progress'. This decline was predicted in the 2022 report and is now projected, with 61 countries showing a significant decline, 77 countries remaining stagnant, and only 32 countries making real progress. As a result, four out of five people worldwide live in countries where social progress is either stagnant or declining. The main indicators of the decline include health, with a decrease of 1.7 points attributed to increased mortality rates among people aged 15–50 and reduced life expectancy, significantly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Also, access to information decreased by 2.2 points, mainly due to reduced freedom of the press. Citizens' rights and voice have also declined by 0.51 points, with a continuous decline in personal rights since 2011, one of the biggest barriers to advancing social progress. The G7 countries either remained stagnant or saw a decline in social progress, with the United States, France, and Canada showing significant declines from 2022. Collectively, the social progress of the Union's 27 countries has surpassed that of the United States. for the first time. However, this change is due more to the decline of the US than to significant improvements in the EU, which has seen stagnation in social progress, with countries such as Austria, Lithuania, Spain, Slovakia, and Croatia seeing significant declines. The United States has seen a steady decline in social progress since 2011, losing 0.34 points this year alone and falling to 29th place globally, behind Malta and Cyprus. The Social Progress Index (SPI) is a critical tool that measures social and environmental performance in 170 countries using 12 components and 57 indicators. It provides a comprehensive economic assessment of how countries are turning progress into improved social outcomes, helping businesses make better policy and investment decisions. SPI's methodology and data transparency are particularly important. The index only uses specific social and environmental indicators, avoiding economic proxies, to provide an analysis of social development from economic development. The methodology emphasises transparency in data use and calculation processes, incorporating the latest data from reliable sources to determine accuracy and consistency in measurement across countries.

• See this research:

Source:

• Social Progress

Based on Sage Journals research entitled "The Energy Transition and Support for the Radical Right: Evidence from the Netherlands" published on March 11, 2024, a correlation between the implementation of green policies and the rise of the far right emerges. The first example is the Netherlands, where with the green tax and the increase in the price of energy, economically vulnerable citizens have 5%-6% more chances to vote for a far-right party. A similar correlation is seen across Europe with the rise of the AfD (far-right party in Germany) over the heat pump law, protests in Paris and Italy by farmers against the EU's green policies. etc. This correlation can delay the green transition even in countries that strongly support climate change measures and policies. Another study by Cambridge University Press titled "The Political Consequences of Green Policies: Evidence from Italy" (27 April 2023) shows the intention to vote for Italy's far-right parties due to the ban on vehicles in the center due to air pollution. Based on the researchers, this trend is explained by the personal financial burden that consumers have, the creation of policies that will relieve consumers must be immediate and not long-term because in the interim the far-right parties are growing.

Source:

• Washington Post

The UK Supreme Court ruled illegal the government's decision to grant additional powers to the police to suppress demonstrations. The independent activist organisation Liberty took legal action against the government on the occasion of the suppression of a climate change demonstration. Giving almost unlimited powers to the police violates human rights and the right to protest in democratic countries. The Ministry of the Interior has the right to appeal the decision.

Source:

• Reuters

The 2024 World Press Freedom Index, released by Reporters Without Borders (RSF), provides a comprehensive assessment of press freedom across 180 countries, highlighting both the best and worst environments for journalism. Countries Performing Well:

Norway: Once again, Norway tops the index, maintaining its position as the country with the highest press freedom. It exemplifies a robust environment where journalists can work freely and without fear of political or legal repercussions (Global Investigative Journalism Network) (Vajiram & Ravi).

Denmark: Denmark has risen to second place, reflecting its strong legal framework and protections for journalists, which allow for independent and investigative journalism to thrive (Global Investigative Journalism Network) (Vajiram & Ravi).

Ireland: Although it has slipped to eighth place, Ireland remains one of the top countries for press freedom, continuing to support a free and independent media landscape despite some political pressures (The Independent) (Vajiram & Ravi). Countries Performing Poorly:

Eritrea: Eritrea is at the bottom of the index, ranked 180th. The country is notorious for its oppressive regime, which severely restricts media freedom and harshly punishes journalists (Global Investigative Journalism Network) (Vajiram & Ravi).

Syria: Ranked just above Eritrea at 179th, Syria remains one of the most dangerous places for journalists due to ongoing conflict and strict government control over media (The Independent) (Vajiram & Ravi).

Afghanistan: Afghanistan's situation has worsened significantly, falling to 178th. The Taliban's takeover has led to severe restrictions on media, with journalists, especially women, facing extreme dangers (Global Investigative Journalism Network) (The Independent) (Vajiram & Ravi).

These rankings underscore the ongoing global challenges to press freedom, with political repression, armed conflict, and legal constraints being significant factors in many countries.

Source:

• 2024 World Press Freedom Index: Political Pressure Threatens Journalism in a Key Election Year

• Independent

Vajiram & Rami - An Institute for IAS Preparation

Miley has promised to cut significant public spending to resolve the long-standing economic crisis. Cutting the 2023 budget for public universities, the University of Buenos Aires says the fund is only enough for 15% of operating expenses. On the occasion of the above, students, graduates, organised groups, and parties took to the streets demonstrating against the measures, seeing the country's inflation rise unstoppably. In a statement, the University of Buenos Aires says that the demonstrators are over 800,000, which the government denies, stating that only 150,000 are the demonstrators. The Miley government has a plan ready to lay off 70,000 civil servants, close the press agency, and various ministries. Critics of the government say that the fiscal measures taken are putting too much pressure on people who live below the poverty line of 50%, according to the Catholic University of Argentina.

Source:

• CNN

Thousands of Israelis took part in the largest demonstration since the start of the Israel-Hamas war in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem on the last weekend of March. Demonstrators are putting pressure on Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, demanding his resignation and immediate new elections. Protesters cite the prime minister's failure to free Israeli hostages held by Hamas. The demonstration outside the parliament was violently suppressed, but the protesters did not stop the next mass demonstrations. Despite the collective rallying of Israelis against the terrorist group Hamas after October 7, protests against the Netanyahu government by its critics are back in the spotlight.

Source:

• CNN

Resignation of the unelected prime minister of Haiti after the declaration of emergency on the country's roads (March 12, 2024)Due to the continuous postponements and cancellations of the electoral processes in Haiti, the democratic state collapsed. With the assassination of the 43rd President of Haiti in 2021, Prime Minister Ariel Henry took over the governance of the country. The people's demand that the prime minister step down led to violent demonstrations with guns, gangs, and bombings. Following talks in Jamaica held by regional leaders of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and at the urging of the US, Prime Minister Ariel Henry announced his resignation from the government of the country on Monday, March 18. Haiti's chaos will have to face a governing body with seven voting members and two observers who will come from coalitions and various political arenas.

Source:

• Aljazeera

With an assessment of the democratic landscape, primarily in Europe, the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace conducted the "Annual Review of European Democracy Support 2023." European support for promoting democratic policies within the EU and among candidate countries has waned. Events such as Russia's invasion of Ukraine initially prompted the need for assertive actions to promote democracy, which was no longer a primary objective in 2023. Before Russia's invasion, the intention for significant changes in the institutional systems of candidate countries (Moldova, Ukraine) under EU influence was significant. However, this intention did not remain at the forefront in 2023. With the armed conflicts between Israel-Hamas, Nagorno-Karabakh-Azerbaijan, and coups on the African continent, democratisation processes and proactive political policies have been replaced with peace restoration and conflict avoidance policies. This assessment also highlights the rise of the far-right in electoral processes, which is problematic. The stakes for democracy are high in the upcoming elections, as billions of citizens will be called to vote in European elections and national elections in the USA, India, Indonesia, and Mexico. Due to their significance, electoral processes must be fair and free to prevent further damage to democracy as a political system.

Source:

• CARNIEGE EUROPE

Farmers in Europe are complaining about environmental regulations, bureaucracy and financial challenges, among other things. These protests are particularly visible in France but have also spread to other countries such as Italy, Spain and Germany. Often, protests include blocking roads with tractors, throwing eggs at government buildings and shutting down ports. In particular, the protesting farmers express their dissatisfaction with rising costs for energy, fertilizer and transport, as well as competition from cheap imports and concerns about environmental regulations. At the same time, climate change exacerbates the challenges they face as extreme weather events affect their agricultural production. The European Green Plan, which aims to protect the environment, is a major area of disagreement. Finally, governments and the EU have responded with some concessions, such as delaying some regulations and offering financial support to farmers, but this does not satisfy many of them as they consider these measures insufficient and continue to call for further action.

Source:

• BBC

Demonstrations in Senegal have sparked unrest in the only country in the region where democracy is preserved as a polity away from coups. The annulment of the elections by the president triggered an uprising among the citizens, of which more than 150 were arrested, and the political forces of the opposition complained of a "constitutional coup." There were reports of members of parliament forcibly leaving the chamber to avoid voting against the bill to cancel the scheduled elections. The approval of the law to extend the term of President Sol for six additional months was modified for a 10-month postponement of the election, with a possible date for the electoral process on December 15. Despite the declarations of the current president that he will not reclaim the anointing, the political forces accuse him of utter treason.

Source:

• BBC

The Colorado Supreme Court has ruled that former United States President Donald Trump is ineligible to re-contest the Republican nomination for the presidency of the United States. The court's decision is based on the January 6, 2021, riot on Capitol Hill by his supporters and the role he played. The ruling makes Trump the first candidate in US history to be judicially ineligible to run for the highest office in the White House. The decision was adjourned until January 4 for the defendant to exercise his right to appeal to the US Supreme Court, overturning the decision of the Colorado Court that he made.

Source:

• The New York Times

In the largest protest in recent years, tens of thousands of Serbs took to Belgrade after the results of the December 17 election were announced. With the victory of the ruling party in the parliamentary elections and securing 128 seats out of 250 in parliament, the opposition parties called for a demonstration. The European Commission, in a statement made public after an investigation by the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), expresses its concern regarding the transparency of the December 17 elections in Serbia. In addition to the protests and the fact that the opposition is calling for repeat elections citing corruption, there were incidents at the Belgrade city hall that led to dozens of arrests.

Source:

• CNN

In 2024, forty countries will hold general elections in countries where almost half the population of the Earth will be called to elect the next governments. With so much at stake, the role of artificial intelligence and the influence that can be exerted through this tool cannot be overlooked. Artificial intelligence can determine election results in a variety of ways, including by producing false and misleading information. With information overload and the scourge of misinformation, the production of non-factual material through artificial intelligence can shape public opinion and voter direction. Disinformation can be used to create scandals at the expense of political opponents but also to cover up real scandals as "fake news." The analysis of infinite data that artificial intelligence is capable of can be used by candidates before elections to convey personalised messages to voters according to each person's beliefs. With social media being the primary source of information for young voters, AI can be used by politicians to target undecideds and reach them with political messages. Bearing in mind the above, propaganda through artificial intelligence tarnishes democracy and the right of citizens to vote at will. The misuse of artificial intelligence and disinformation produced for partisan political expediency tarnishes the values of democracy and can lead societies into undesirable regimes.

Source:

• Brookings

Read here the V-dem Institute's latest "Democracy Report 2023: Defiance in the Face of Autocratization"

Source:

• V-dem Institute

In a move that highlights the essence of democracy, Poland's three largest opposition parties are collaborating to forge a coalition with the aim of replacing the current ruling Law and Justice (PiS) party. They've made a request to President Andrzej Duda, who plays a pivotal role in Poland's democratic system, to allow them to form a new government. This collaborative effort is a demonstration of how democracy functions, as it emphasizes the power of the majority. The opposition coalition, made up of the Civic Coalition, the center-right Third Way, and the Left, collectively holds a majority of seats in the lower house of parliament. Their intention is to provide an alternative government, which is an essential aspect of democratic competition. Traditionally, the largest party is given the first opportunity to form a government, but in this case, the opposition is underlining that they have the necessary support in the parliament to govern effectively. This represents the democratic principle of checks and balances, ensuring that the governing party or coalition has the support and confidence of the elected representatives. The call for President Duda to act swiftly and the opposition's support for Donald Tusk as the potential new government leader showcase the role of democratic leaders and their responsibility to respond to the will of the people. The democratic process in Poland, as governed by its constitution, dictates the steps to be followed after an election, emphasizing the rule of law and established procedures. Ultimately, the outcome of this democratic process will be determined by President Duda's decision, reinforcing the notion that, in a democracy, leaders are accountable to the people and must adhere to constitutional principles. The story in Poland underscores how democracy involves not only the act of voting but also the subsequent formation of a government through cooperation and constitutional procedures.

Source:

• POLITICO

The 2023 SDG Summit, positioned halfway between the adoption of the 2030 Agenda in 2015 and the 2030 deadline for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), offered nations an opportunity to review their progress and challenges in implementing the SDGs. This event took place against a backdrop of significant ongoing global crises, including climate change, the COVID-19 pandemic, and international conflicts such as Russia's aggression in Ukraine. These crises have not only hindered progress toward the SDGs but have disproportionately affected vulnerable communities and nations, exacerbating existing inequalities. Recent data illustrates that only 15% of the SDGs are currently on track, underscoring the urgency of renewing commitments to and expediting progress toward the 2030 Agenda.

Throughout the Summit, various key themes emerged, reflecting the concerns of member states:

Reforming the International Financial System: A primary focus was on enhancing developing countries' access to financial resources, with calls for an annual SDG stimulus of at least $500 billion, effective debt-relief mechanisms, and changes in the operational model of multilateral development banks to better support developing nations.

Food Security: Many nations highlighted food security as a pressing global issue. Despite some progress, a significant number of people continue to experience hunger, necessitating immediate action.

Climate Change: Climate change was a central concern throughout the Summit, with an emphasis on the need for developed countries to honor their commitments under The Paris Agreement. Small island states, in particular, underscored climate change as an existential threat, calling for increased climate finance, carbon pricing, and the activation of Loss and Damage Funds to assist developing nations in addressing the adverse impacts of climate change.

Social Protection and Education: Expanding social protection and improving education emerged as critical priorities. The focus was on ensuring that these services are accessible to all, especially those who are vulnerable or marginalized.

Private Capital: The imperative of mobilizing private capital for sustainable development was emphasized, with substantial commitments, including the European Union's pledge to invest in renewable energy, health systems, education, green transport, and digital infrastructure.

Three overarching themes were frequently cited:

Digitalization: The importance of digitalization and the urgent need to bridge the digital divide were underscored, with universal internet access considered a vital component of development.

Gender Equality: Achieving gender equality and empowering women and girls was a shared priority, not only for its intrinsic value but also for its critical role in international cooperation, climate action, and equitable finance policies.

Strengthening Multilateralism: The significance of bolstering multilateralism and fostering global solidarity was emphasized by all groups. It was recognized that achieving the SDGs necessitated international collaboration.

The negotiation process for the Political Declaration adopted at the Summit faced challenges, particularly in reconciling differences between the G77+China and Global North countries. The declaration reaffirmed commitments, assessed progress and gaps in SDG implementation, and called for member states to take action toward realizing the 2030 Agenda.

The importance of democracy and strong institutions, particularly in the context of Goal 16 (peace, justice, and strong institutions), was highlighted by some countries. These nations stressed the need to link peace, justice, security, development, human rights, and strong institutions to promote good governance and evidence-based policy making.

While democracy and strong institutions were not explicitly highlighted throughout the Summit, their indirect acknowledgment was evident in discussions related to peace, justice, security, and good governance.

Source:

• IDEA International

In the de facto capital of the European Union, Brussels, where pluralism, multilingualism, and multiculturalism are the main characteristics of the city, a terrorist attack took place on Monday, October, 16. Two Swedes have been tragically shot dead by an Islamic terrorist who was found and executed by Belgian authorities. The victims of the terrorist attack were not accidental, as they were wearing jerseys of Sweden, and recently, in demonstrations, they burned the Koran as a sign of protest. The terrorist attacks in Brussels and France (October 13, 2023) are phenomena that come from the Middle East war between Israel and Hamas, where the Western states sided with Israel while at the same time extremist Islamic organisations sided with Palestine and incited Muslims to holy war. Western countries are putting airports and crowded areas on high security alert for fear of new terror attacks.

Source:

• Reuters

With the war between Israel and Hamas, France is on the alert with draconian security measures for fear of new attacks, as it has the largest Jewish and Muslim communities in Europe. With Hamas calling on Muslims to protest around the world, the pro-Israeli leanings of the Macron government are causing backlash, with anti-Semitism protests being suppressed by French authorities. On Friday, October 13, an Islamic terrorist stabbed a professor to death and injured two others while shouting, "Allah is great." After this incident, 7,000 soldiers were mobilised to patrol the streets of France.

Source:

• Reuters

After a military operation by the Azerbaijanis on September 19, 2023, 100,000 Armenians were displaced from their ancestral homes in the so-called Republic of Artsakh. The dissolution of every state institution and mechanism was signed by the president of the unrecognised republic of Artsakh on January 1, 2024. The Republic of Armenia condemns the persecution of Armenians who have been living in the enclave for centuries, speaking of ethnic cleansing after the Genocide experienced by Armenians by the Ottomans. The international community condemned the military operation and the persecution of the Armenians, with the European Union and Russia urging the start of a dialogue and an end to the bloodshed. France has called for an emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council. Armenians who were persecuted from their homes are protected by the "1951 Refugee Convention," since Article 1 defines a refugee as "a person who, due to a well-founded fear of persecution for reasons of race, religion, or nationality [...] is outside the country of his nationality and is unable or, through fear, unwilling to place himself under the protection of the said country."

Source:

• BBC

The impartiality of the US institutions was demonstrated by the rejection of the request of the former President of the United States, Donald Trump, by the Supreme Court of New York on Tuesday, September 26, to dismiss a lawsuit in which he is accused of committing fraud. Judge Arthur Engoron found that Trump overstated the value of his real estate by as much as $2.5 billion. Real estate overvaluations gave access to loans by fooling banks and insurers. Following the judge's decision, the licences and operating certificates of some of the former president's New York businesses were revoked. The court's verdict eases the next trial by the state Attorney General's Office, which previously set a penalty of about $250 million. In addition to the above, the former President of the USA was arrested four times and charged with 91 felonies in four different states.

Source:

• The Guardian

A military coup has been controlling Gabon since Wednesday, August 30, 2023, just four days after the election of President Ali Bongo for a third term. With the announcement of the results of the elections by the competent committee, the opposition questioned the process. It should be noted that President-elect Bongo secured 64.27% in the election and his political opponent, Albert Odo Osa, 30.77%, who publicly expressed his concern about electoral fraud. In the early hours of Wednesday morning, 10 senior officers broadcast on state television a relevant announcement where they stated that "all the institutions of the Republic are being cancelled due to the irresponsibility of the government, which would lead the country to chaos". The self-named "Committee for Transition and Restoration of Institutions" chose among themselves General Brice Oligui Nguema as head of the military government. The international community has immediately and strongly condemned what is happening in Gabon, with the United Nations and the African Union calling for the safety of President Bongo and his family. China and Russia expect immediate stability and security in the region, and the United States considers the situation alarming.

Source:

• Reuters

In Tunisia, the interplay between police authority and democratic principles has propelled concerns about police violence. Activists revealing personal encounters with brutality underscore an enduring issue, rooted in pre-independence history. Despite democratic strides, instances of police violence persist, prompting a crucial dialogue on safeguarding democratic ideals while ensuring security. Recent events highlight the tension between civil liberties and maintaining order. During protests against President Kais Saied's constitutional referendum, police response invoked memories of past autocratic regimes. However, public outrage remains limited, possibly due to a tacit understanding that some police misconduct is tolerated for perceived security. Efforts to reform police practices encounter obstacles. Legal changes to limit police discretion in interpreting laws face challenges. Vulnerable communities, like the LGBTQ+ community, endure escalated intrusions, violence, and threats from law enforcement. President Saied's collaboration with security services has concentrated power, raising concerns about democratic principles. His use of security forces against his own support base risks eroding his populist image, particularly amid economic turmoil. Tunisia's struggle against police violence underscores the intricacies of balancing security with democratic values. Striking this equilibrium remains a global challenge, necessitating continued reflection and action to protect citizens' rights while maintaining order.

Source:

• Al Jazeera

Detaining a French police officer involved in the shooting of a 22-year-old during riots in Marseille has ignited a heated debate about justice and accountability within a democratic society. The officer's pre-trial detention has sparked a strong response from fellow officers across the country, highlighting the tension between upholding the law and protecting those responsible for enforcing it. The victim, Hedi, a young assistant restaurant manager, sustained severe head injuries from a rubber bullet, raising questions about the proportionality of force used by law enforcement during public demonstrations. The officer in question admitted to firing the shot but denied seeing any injuries. This incident is part of a larger pattern, as protests erupted following the death of a 17-year-old at the hands of police in Paris. While the police unions and higher authorities called for the officer's release, the decision to detain him reflects the principle that in a democracy, no one, not even those entrusted with maintaining order, is above the law. The concerns about potential collusion among colleagues and the need to ensure accountability underscore the essence of justice within democratic societies. These events also bring to light a broader debate about the appropriate balance between maintaining public order and respecting the rights and safety of citizens exercising their democratic right to protest. The use of rubber bullets, as seen in the case of Hedi and other instances of injury or death, raises questions about the limits of force that can be employed by law enforcement in a democratic nation. The incident serves as a reminder that democratic societies strive to uphold the rule of law and individual rights, even in situations involving those responsible for enforcing the law. It prompts citizens and leaders alike to consider how to ensure accountability, transparency, and justice within institutions charged with safeguarding democracy and protecting the rights of all citizens.

Source:

• BBC

The situation in France over the last week is raising alarm bells for the country's internal security, projecting insecurity about social cohesion between the French government and its citizens. The shooting of 17- year-old Nachel M. by the police on Tuesday 27/06/2023 caused both his death and chaos across France, reigniting pre-existing backlash against police brutality and racism. By Thursday, 492 buildings had been damaged, 2,000 cars had been burnt and 3,880 fires had broken out across France, with the French government deploying 45,000 police and army personnel to try to control the situation. In just a few months, the French citizens clash for the second time strongly with the government, which seems to have difficulty controlling the crowds but above all managing to convince and defend its social cohesion and democracy. The constant chaotic reactions of French citizens towards social issues and political decisions, focus the lens on the inability of the French government to persuade and govern smoothly. Both during the imposition of pension reforms and now, the democratic and productive dialogue does not prevail, but a period of crisis is going through in which an inappropriate relationship between the state and citizens is revealed which, if not normalized, may lead to even worse situations.

Source:

• The Guardian

The recent local election victory of the far-right AfD in Sonneberg, Germany has sparked concerns about the state of democracy in the country. This watershed moment in German politics has prompted a reflection on the challenges that defenders of democracy now face. The rise of a right-wing extremist party winning a significant political office is seen as a warning sign for established parties and a call for reevaluation.

The far-right Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) has achieved its first victory in a district council election in Germany, marking a significant moment in the country's political landscape. The election took place in Sonneberg, Thuringia, and resulted in the election of Robert Sesselmann from the AfD as the district administrator, defeating the Christian Democrats' (CDU) Jurgen Köpper. The Thuringia branch of the AfD has been labeled as right-wing extremist by intelligence services and is led by Björn Höcke, considered part of the party's far-right wing. This victory is seen as a breakthrough for the AfD and could have implications for upcoming elections, particularly in the eastern regions of Germany.

The outcome has raised concerns among established parties and civil society organizations, who view it as a turning point and a challenge to democracy that requires a response. The Central Council of Jews in Germany expressed devastation over the result, highlighting the extremist background of the AfD candidate. The election outcome, despite the low voter turnout, carries significance beyond Sonneberg and serves as a warning to established parties that voters may be seeking alternatives. The AfD's success in Sonneberg aligns with its recent strong polling nationwide, with support ranging from 18% to 20%. Dissatisfaction with the current coalition government and issues such as energy procurement, military strength, migration policy, and health reform have contributed to the AfD's rise in popularity. Recent polls indicate the AfD's support at 20%, similar to the Social Democrats, with the Greens at 13% and the opposition CDU at 26%. Sesselmann campaigned on issues such as pursuing a peace agreement with Russia over the invasion of Ukraine and opposing Germany's military support to Kyiv. However, local concerns were primarily focused on living standards, low wages, and pensions compared to western Germany, as well as a perceived lack of acknowledgment for the experiences of citizens from the former communist east. The election result in Sonneberg is seen as a reflection of dissatisfaction and calls for a reevaluation of German unity to include the concerns of eastern Germans. The AfD views this victory as just the beginning and aims to win over the majority with its policies centered on people's interests. They believe this will lead to a positive shift in the political landscape.

Source:

• The Guardian

The European Parliament has adopted its position on the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Act, aiming to ensure the development and use of AI in Europe aligns with EU rights and values. The adoption reflects the democratic principles and values upheld by the European Union. In the context of AI, this means safeguarding the rights and interests of European citizens while promoting responsible and ethical development and use of AI technologies. The rules establish obligations for AI providers and users based on the level of risk involved. Prohibited AI practices include social scoring, intrusive and discriminatory uses of AI, real-time and post remote biometric identification systems, predictive policing systems, and untargeted scraping of facial images. High-risk AI applications now include those influencing elections and recommender systems used by large social media platforms. General purpose AI providers must assess and mitigate risks, register models, comply with transparency requirements, and disclose copyrighted data used for training. Exemptions for research activities and open-source AI components were added to support innovation. The law also promotes regulatory sandboxes for testing AI, enhances citizens' right to file complaints, and reforms the EU AI Office's role in monitoring implementation of the AI rulebook. The adoption of the AI Act by the European Parliament demonstrates a commitment to democratic governance and the protection of citizens' rights in the context of AI. By establishing regulations, promoting transparency, and enhancing citizen participation, the Act aims to strike a balance between technological innovation and the democratic values and principles that underpin European society.

Source:

• European Parliament

On Tuesday, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva called for the rebooting of South American regional integration efforts and summoned eleven South American heads of state to Brasilia. Lula proposed various ideas such as a regional energy market, coordinated action on climate change, and even the possibility of a regional currency. However, his embrace of Venezuela's autocratic president, Nicolás Maduro, stole the headlines. Lula defended Maduro against accusations of anti-democratic practices and criticized the narrative constructed against him. This drew condemnation from some leaders, while others, particularly left-leaning politicians like Gustavo Petro of Colombia, supported Maduro. The incident highlights a trend in Latin America where there is a lack of consensus on what constitutes democracy, straining regional integration and diplomatic relations. Previously, there was a minimum consensus on democracy among the member states of the Organization of American States (OAS), but it has since frayed. The ambiguity surrounding democratic breakdowns has allowed governments to avoid taking action against ideological allies. This lack of agreement on democracy hampers efforts to address cross-border challenges and maintain bilateral relations. The politicization of diplomacy has led to clashes between leaders, such as Bolsonaro and Fernández, and strained relations between countries. As regional sentiment may shift towards the right, diplomatic friction is expected to continue. Lula's remarks in Brasilia highlight how ideological divisions and the abandonment of dialogue and cooperation have hindered regional integration efforts.

Source:

• Council on Foreign Relations

Recep Tayyip Erdoğan's victory in Turkey's presidential election has left millions of citizens worried about the country's future. The election took place against the backdrop of a severe cost of living crisis, with the currency at record lows and inflation soaring. Erdoğan's unorthodox economic policies, including his opposition to high interest rates and interference with the central bank's independence, have contributed to the crisis. The state's resources are further strained by election giveaways and a near-record current account deficit. Foreign investors have been deterred by Erdoğan's policies and his confrontational approach towards Western allies, leading to a decline in resources available to defend the currency. To address the economic challenges, Erdoğan must abandon his unconventional monetary policies and restore credibility to state institutions. This would increase the chances of attracting wary investors back to the country. However, if Erdoğan remains true to his previous actions, the relationship between Turkey and the West is likely to remain unpredictable and strained. Concerns also arise regarding the state of democracy in Turkey. Erdoğan has consolidated power and centralized decision-making, moving closer to one-man rule. He has transformed Turkey's parliamentary democracy into an all-powerful executive presidency, limiting the playing field for elections and gaining control over the mainstream media. Opposition figures, including Selahattin Demirtaş and Ekrem İmamoğlu, face imprisonment and bans from politics. Civil liberties are also at risk, as Erdoğan has targeted marginalized groups and made divisive accusations against his opponents. While Erdoğan's supporters see his victory as a sign of enduring popularity, the fact that he was forced into a run-off election indicates a significant political divide. Constitutionally, this should be Erdoğan's final term, and he should consider the legacy he intends to leave. Regardless, Turkey faces turbulent times ahead, with the risk of economic crisis and diminishing democratic freedoms.

Source:

• Financial Times

Turkey's upcoming elections on May 14 have put the centralisation of power under an increasingly authoritarian President Erdogan under scrutiny. The six-party opposition bloc is focusing its campaign on undoing the “one-man regime,” with a focus on restoring Turkish democracy. However, the country's cost of living crisis is the number one electoral battleground, with inflation hitting a record high of 85.5% last October and running at just over 50% in March. Erdogan has been criticised for advocating for slashing interest rates, which has poured fuel onto the inflationary fire. The main thrust of the opposition’s manifesto for switching power away from the presidency focuses on legalistic provisions to ensure a non-partisan presidency and impose a one-term limit, among other measures. The opposition is calling for greater emphasis on parliamentary decision-making and teams in decision-making candidates. In contrast to the image of Erdogan as the lone almighty leader, opposition leader Kemal Kilicdaroglu portrays himself as building consensus, ready to draw on a broad pool of talent.

Source:

• POLITICO

The European Union (EU) and its member states are facing an increasing threat from hostile actors employing hybrid tactics such as disinformation, economic pressure, cyber-attacks, and abuse of migrants. Hybrid threats are intended to undermine the core democratic processes of the EU and erode citizens' trust in their institutions and governments. In response to these threats, the Joint Research Centre of the European Commission and The European Centre of Excellence for Countering Hybrid Threats have developed a new model called the Comprehensive Resilience Ecosystem (CORE) to counter hybrid threats and strengthen Europe's resilience.

The CORE model is a systems-thinking approach that takes a whole-of-society approach to analyzing society comprehensively. It considers different "spaces" of society such as governance, civic, and services, different "levels" such as international, national, and local, and their interactions. The CORE model helps policymakers counter complex hybrid threats in an efficient and coordinated way by mapping how malicious actors use various tools against different domains to reach their target, detecting hostile activities and their intensity, monitoring affected dependencies to avoid possible cascading effects, facilitating the anticipation of damage to our democracies, and assessing impacts of possible hybrid attacks and campaigns.

The CORE model provides democratic policymakers with a hands-on methodology to estimate how authoritarian states or non-state actors employ hybrid threats activity to manipulate or destabilize democracies. It may be considered a blueprint for adaptive thinking and helps EU member states understand how they can foster resilience and enhance their margin of maneuver when facing hybrid threats.

The CORE model is a significant step in countering hybrid threats and building resilience, and it will assist EU policymakers in creating the EU Hybrid toolbox announced in A Strategic Compass for Security and Defence. This document also will serve as the basis for further work on the Sectoral Hybrid Resilience Baselines.

Source:

• European Commission

France's President Emmanuel Macron has won a major political victory, as the country's pension reforms, raising the age of retirement by two years to 64, were passed into law following approval by the Constitutional Council. The Council, while rejecting some elements of the reform, including the conversion of pension points earned by the workers into a euro value, has left the controversial retirement age change intact. France's pension system, where the right to retire at 62 is deeply cherished, is highly sensitive and the reforms have prompted mass protests and clashes between the police and demonstrators. While the government says the changes are necessary to prevent the pension system's finances from slipping into the red, opposition parties and union leaders have pledged to continue fighting the reforms. The leader of the CGT union, one of France's biggest unions, has called for a "historic" protest on May 1st, while far-left leader Jean-Luc Melenchon accused the Council of being "more attentive to the needs of the presidential monarchy than to those of the sovereign people". Despite the changes, France's new retirement age will still be below the norm in Europe and many other developed economies, where the age at which full pension benefits apply is 65 and increasingly moving towards 67. State pensions in France are also more generous than elsewhere. At nearly 14% of GDP in 2018, the country's spending on state pensions is larger than in most other countries, according to the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development.

Source:

• CNN

Building on what he described as his administration's "enduring commitment to enhance democracy globally," President Joe Biden delivered a speech to the second Summit for Democracy on 29th March from the White House, reassuring attendees that democratic institutions are effective. Biden is one of the co-hosts of this year's multi-day conference, together with the presidents of Zambia, South Korea, the Netherlands, and Costa Rica. In Washington, Biden presided over a virtual summit event centered on how democracies can address global difficulties. He urged democracies to remain united in the face of these challenges. "This is what I hope the summit will demonstrate to everyone in attendance and watching around the world: it is effective. It's effective," Biden declared. "Too many areas in the world believed that democracy's greatest days were behind us when we convened here in December 2021. Over 15 years in a row, democracy suffered in some ways. Yet, we can state that the story to be told this year is different. The president stated that the summit's goal was to "continue building on our progress so we don't start going in the wrong direction again." He continued, "Democracy is hard work, and it must be continually protected."

Source:

• CNN

Israel's largest trade union has announced a “historic” strike that has resulted in the closure of transportation, universities, restaurants, and retailers, among other establishments, in protest against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's proposed judicial overhaul. Government ministries, the three largest cities in the country, banks, ports, and many other companies and agencies are also on strike, but essential services such as hospitals and firefighters will operate on a Saturday schedule. The strike has caused disruptions to flights from Israel's main airport and has shut down the country's largest port in Haifa, among other impacts. Protests have been ongoing in Israel against the planned judicial changes that would give the ruling parties more control over Israel's judiciary, with hundreds of thousands of Israelis protesting for months. The firing of Israel's defense minister, who opposed the reforms, and the subsequent protests have prompted prominent officials to call for a halt to the judicial reform process. These officials include mayors from across Israel, who have declared a hunger strike over the judicial overhaul. Netanyahu is under increasing pressure from his own party as protests continue, and even some of the most forceful proponents of the reform have appeared to soften their stance. Justice Minister Yariv Levin, who has strongly advocated for the reform to be pushed through, opened the door to the possibility of a delay on Monday.

Source:

• CNN

French President Emmanuel Macron's decision to push through his pension reform without a vote has sparked a political and institutional crisis. The use of Article 49.3 to bypass parliament led to widespread protests, with ordinary people as well as leftist and unionist activists taking to the streets in the capital, Paris. Critics have denounced Macron's "violation of democracy" and accused him of trying to force through a reform that is both unpopular and unfair. The reform, which includes raising the minimum retirement age and making it harder to claim a full pension, has touched a raw nerve in a country where equality is enshrined in the motto. The government's decision to use Article 49.3 was seen as an admission that it lacked a parliamentary majority for its reform. The move has been widely criticised by right-wing politicians, who have warned that it risks radicalising the opposition and undermining the law's democratic legitimacy.

Source:

• France 24