Backsliding

Definition

Backsliding refers to the gradual decline of democratic practices and institutions in a political system that was previously considered democratic. This phenomenon often manifests through increased authoritarianism, erosion of civil liberties, and the weakening of checks and balances within government. Political polarization can exacerbate backsliding, as divisive political environments may lead to the marginalization of opposition voices and the undermining of democratic norms.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Backsliding often begins with the elected leaders undermining the independence of the judiciary and restricting media freedom.
2. It can lead to significant public disillusionment with democracy, as citizens may perceive their government as increasingly unresponsive to their needs.
3. Political polarization can create an environment where parties justify undemocratic actions against opponents, thinking they are protecting democracy.
4. International factors such as foreign influence and support for authoritarian regimes can contribute to backsliding in vulnerable democracies.
5. Monitoring organizations have noted that backsliding is not limited to developing countries; many established democracies are also facing challenges.

Review Questions

• How does political polarization contribute to the phenomenon of backsliding in democracies?
  • Political polarization creates an environment where opposing parties view each other not just as rivals but as existential threats. This heightened animosity can lead politicians to justify undemocratic measures as necessary for 'protecting' their version of democracy. As a result, leaders may implement policies that weaken checks on their power or suppress dissenting voices, ultimately fostering a cycle of backsliding.
• Discuss the implications of backsliding for civil society and democratic engagement within affected countries.
  • Backsliding poses serious risks to civil society as it often leads to crackdowns on non-governmental organizations and activists who challenge the government. This suppression reduces opportunities for democratic engagement, as citizens become fearful of expressing dissent. As civil liberties erode, public participation in democratic processes diminishes, creating an environment where authoritarianism can thrive unchecked.
• Evaluate the role of international actors in preventing or mitigating backsliding in democracies worldwide.
  • International actors, including foreign governments and organizations, play a crucial role in either preventing or exacerbating backsliding. Support for democratic movements and sanctions against authoritarian actions can help uphold democratic norms. Conversely, foreign powers that back authoritarian regimes can legitimize undemocratic behavior and diminish prospects for reform. Therefore, international pressure combined with robust support for civil society can be effective strategies in countering backsliding.

Related terms

Democratic Erosion: The process by which democratic institutions, practices, and norms are weakened or dismantled, often leading to authoritarian governance.

Authoritarianism: A political system characterized by concentration of power in a single authority or a small group, often lacking democratic accountability and civil liberties.

Populism:

A political approach that seeks to represent the interests of ordinary people, often contrasting them against a perceived corrupt elite, which can sometimes lead to undermining democratic institutions.