The 21st Century is the Last Century of Democracy

Editorial Note: Many aspirants preparing for competitive exams struggle with writing a comprehensive essay, particularly in creating a proper outline and thesis statement. To address these challenges, ‘The Spine Times’ has initiated a series of essays that apply various discourses, tailored to meet the requirements of the FPSC. The essay titled “The 21st Century is the Last Century of Democracy” by Sohail Afridi (CSP) addresses the critical concerns of the aspirants.

A. Introduction

B. Conceptualizing democracy 

C. Democracy will persist as an eternal phenomenon 

1. Democracy is intrinsically resilient 
2. Democracy as a popular model is owned by the masses 
3. Authoritarian models have become derogatory terms 
4. Democracy’s inherent nexus with global media 
5. International institutions uphold democratic norms 
6. Populism is on the decline at a broader level 
7. The emergence of global issues has ignited popular participation 

D. Temporary challenges to democracy 

1. The resurgence of right-wing parties 
2. Global political polarization 
3. Immigration and the resultant backlash

E. Why pessimists believe that democracy will witness its demise by the end of the 21st century 

1. Some base their opinion on temporary challenges 
2. Some are unaware of the intrinsic resilience of democracy 
3.  Some politically motivated people propagate authoritarianism 
4.  Misunderstandings surrounding the rise of populism

F. Conclusion 

Essay

It is democracy that bestowed the common man with the throne of power, taking it from kings, monarchs, and autocrats. This transformation in human political organization has witnessed centuries of sacrifices, revolutions, rewards, and struggles. After such relentless efforts, common people finally attained the freedom to organize and govern themselves without coercion, subjugation, or exploitation. By the middle of the 20th century, democracy had gained prominence as a form of government in Europe, America, and parts of Asia and Africa. Not only did it successfully confront authoritarian ideologies, but it also delivered in alignment with people’s expectations. However, owing to the complexity of the 21st-century world, democracy once again faces certain confrontational challenges. These include the resurgence of right-wing parties in Europe, Asia, and the USA, global political polarization, and issues arising from migration and globalization. In light of these challenges, some pessimists argue that democracy will witness its demise by the end of this century. However, they fail to comprehend the resilient nature of democracy, which endures even amidst temporary crises. Democracy is more than a form of governance; it has been embraced by the masses across various continents. The influence of global public opinion, media narratives, and the efforts of international institutions all aim to establish democracy as an eternal phenomenon for organizing human lives in the best way possible. The unprecedented mobility and active participation of the public worldwide—demanding remedial measures from governments on global issues like climate change and pandemics—further reinforce democracy’s resilience. This inclusive input in policy-making strengthens democracy and ensures its relevance.

Politics without Ethics is a Disaster

Democracy, at its core, is founded on principles that distinguish it from other forms of governance: elected governments, consent of the governed, participatory decision-making, institutional accountability, human rights, separation of powers, and mechanisms of checks and balances. These defining features make democracy appealing to the masses, who see in it an avenue for self-determination and collective progress. The democratic framework enables people to exercise control over their lives and ensures that the government remains accountable and transparent. Thus, democracy thrives on principles that continue to resonate universally, especially in an era where citizens increasingly demand a say in the decisions that affect them.

One of the strongest arguments for democracy’s resilience lies in its intrinsic ability to recover from periods of crisis and adapt to changing circumstances. Democracy has historically withstood powerful threats, such as the rise of Nazism and fascism in the early 20th century, which temporarily overshadowed democratic principles in Europe. However, the downfall of these authoritarian regimes and the post-war resurgence of democratic ideals showcased democracy’s ability to endure and reassert itself even after devastating setbacks. The people’s collective will to reclaim democratic norms ultimately prevailed, reaffirming democracy as an enduring force that transcends temporary adversities.

Furthermore, democracy remains a model that resonates with the public because of its inclusivity and adaptability. In Turkey, for instance, the failed military coup in 2016 revealed the strength of public support for democratic governance. Thousands of citizens took to the streets to defend their government, underscoring the popular ownership of democratic systems. When the public values and protects democracy, as seen in Turkey, it becomes evident that democracy is deeply rooted in the people’s consciousness, making it far more resilient than authoritarian alternatives, which tend to be viewed with distrust and apprehension.

Artificial Intelligence: The Death of Creativity

Another compelling reason for democracy’s resilience lies in its symbiotic relationship with the global media, which reinforces democratic ideals. The media acts as a watchdog, holding those in power accountable and disseminating information essential for public participation. The Washington Post’s motto, “Democracy Dies in Darkness,” aptly captures the media’s vital role in preserving democratic values. Through continuous coverage and analysis, global media outlets highlight issues that require government attention, advocate for transparency, and support public discourse. As long as media organizations worldwide uphold this mission, democracy will continue to benefit from a robust support network that amplifies citizens’ voices and promotes democratic governance.

International institutions, too, play a significant role in supporting democratic norms on a global scale. Organizations like the United Nations uphold democratic principles through investigations and reports on human rights violations, corruption, and electoral fairness. These institutions reinforce democratic values by setting standards and expectations for member states, fostering a culture that values democracy and condemns authoritarianism. By promoting accountability and advocating for democratic reforms, international bodies contribute to democracy’s persistence across borders.

While populism has risen in some areas, it is not as pervasive as it may seem. The misperception of an unstoppable populist wave is contradicted by examples like the election of Joe Biden in the United States, which reflected a public rejection of populist extremism. Similarly, in Italy, the Brothers of Italy party did gain momentum; however, populist movements remain sporadic and are often counterbalanced by democratic resilience. The public’s ability to discern and resist divisive populist rhetoric in favor of inclusivity and stability signals that democracy remains highly valued globally, even if occasionally tested by temporary trends.

The Intersection of Technology and Democracy: Strengthening or Threatening

Moreover, global challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic and climate change have intensified popular participation in governance. These crises have heightened public expectations for government responsiveness and transparency. As citizens demand action on issues that affect their well-being and the planet’s future, they actively engage in democratic processes, underscoring the idea that democracy is not only about rights but also about responsibilities. The call for solutions to complex issues has driven individuals worldwide to advocate for more inclusive and accountable governance, demonstrating democracy’s enduring relevance in addressing contemporary challenges.

However, democracy is not without challenges, and it currently faces significant pressures. The resurgence of right-wing parties, global political polarization, and backlash against immigration have tested democratic structures, particularly in regions grappling with shifting demographics and ideological divides. These issues have raised questions about democracy’s future, but they are not unique to this era; democracies have historically navigated similar challenges. While these pressures may temporarily strain democratic systems, they do not signify an irreversible decline, as democracy has consistently proven its adaptability in the face of adversity.

Pessimists argue that democracy may not survive the 21st century, pointing to current challenges as evidence of its impending decline. Some believe that the rise of populism and political polarization reflects a deeper crisis, while others see democracy’s adaptability as a weakness rather than a strength. Additionally, certain politically motivated individuals promote authoritarianism, presenting it as a solution to complex issues. However, these views often ignore democracy’s history of resilience and the underlying commitment of people worldwide to uphold it as a preferred form of governance.

In conclusion, while democracy faces numerous challenges today, it remains resilient and continues to evolve. Its defining principles, popular support, institutional frameworks, and engagement with global issues have solidified its place as an enduring model of governance. Despite the pessimistic outlook of some, democracy has repeatedly shown that it can withstand and adapt to crises. As people demand greater accountability, inclusivity, and responsiveness from their governments, democracy’s future appears promising. Far from witnessing its demise, the world is likely to see democracy persist and strengthen, bolstered by the collective will of the people and the robust institutions that support it.