In the contemporary context, the Sanskrit proverb "यथा राजा तथा प्रजा" (The character of a nation is reflected in the character of its rulers) translates loosely to the idea that the health of a democracy is ultimately defined by its citizenry.
Steven Levitsky and Daniel Ziblatt's book, "How Democracies Die," meticulously examines the fragility of democracy, the factors that erode it, and the crucial safeguards that can prevent its demise. Through historical analysis and contemporary case studies, they unveil the insidious mechanisms through which democracies succumb to authoritarian rule, urging us to recognize and preempt these dangers.
Populist leaders, often exploiting anxieties and manipulating democratic processes, can usher in an era of declining democratic norms. These leaders may concentrate power, dismantle checks and balances, and undermine the rule of law.
The authors identify four early warning signs of democratic decline. These include attempts to subvert democratic institutions or delegitimize elections, refusing to acknowledge the legitimacy of opponents, inciting violence to silence dissent, and restricting fundamental civil liberties like freedom of speech, press etc.
Authoritarian leaders seeking to solidify their control employ a three-pronged strategy. They strive to control referee institutions (courts, tax and intelligence agencies), neutralize rivals (opposition's leaders, financiers, and media), and manipulate the rules (constitution, elections) to their advantage. Additionally, they may exploit economic crises, natural disasters, or security threats to justify anti-democratic measures.
The book emphasizes that even well-designed constitutions cannot, by themselves, guarantee a democracy's survival. Constitutions are inherently incomplete, leaving room for interpretation and exploitation. However, democracies function best and endure longest in countries where written constitutions are bolstered by unwritten rules of the game. These unwritten norms, such as mutual toleration (willingness to compromise with rivals) and institutional forbearance (restraint in using institutional power), are essential for checks and balances to function effectively. They require actors to accept the legitimacy of their opponents and avoid abusing their institutional power for partisan gain.
Political parties play a crucial role as guardians of democracy. The book emphasizes the importance of parties prioritizing democratic norms over short-term gains. This includes rejecting extremists within their ranks and avoiding alliances with anti-democratic forces. The authors advocate for "gatekeeping" by parties but caution against excessive reliance on it, as it can be undemocratic. A delicate balance is needed between democratic representation and filtering out unfit candidates.
The media landscape also plays a critical role. Media polarization can exacerbate existing democratic divisions. A diverse and independent media is essential for providing accurate information and fostering informed public discourse.
Beyond institutions, the authors underscore the paramount importance of active citizen participation. Apathy undermines democratic resilience. Citizens must actively engage in political processes, hold leaders accountable, and defend democratic norms. Civic education and critical thinking skills are crucial to empower citizens to be effective guardians of democracy. Without a clear understanding of the mechanisms of democratic erosion, we risk becoming desensitized to authoritarian tendencies. But with this awareness, we can equip ourselves to defend and strengthen democratic institutions for future generations.
Comments
Post a Comment