Freedom in the World: Global Struggle for Democracy Faces Challenges
2022 Report Highlights Decline in Democratic Progress
Authoritarian Rule on the Rise Worldwide
The latest edition of the Freedom in the World report, published by Freedom House, reveals a concerning trend in the global struggle for democracy. The report, which ranks 211 countries and territories based on their levels of political rights and civil liberties, found that the overall global score has declined for the 16th consecutive year.
The report notes that the "global expansion of authoritarian rule" is a major factor in this decline. More countries are experiencing democratic backsliding, with elected leaders rolling back civil and political rights, undermining judicial independence, and restricting media freedom.
Russia's invasion of Ukraine is a stark example of this trend. The conflict has led to a severe crackdown on dissent in Russia, with independent media outlets being shut down and opposition activists facing reprisals.
Freedom House's research contrasts with the Polity IV scale used by academics. While the Polity IV scale classifies Russia as an autocracy, the Freedom in the World report assigns it a lower score, reflecting the country's further slide towards authoritarianism.
The decline in democratic progress is a cause for concern, as it undermines the fundamental rights and freedoms that are essential for a free and just society. The report calls for a renewed commitment to democracy and a concerted effort to push back against authoritarianism.
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