Democratic Backsliding

Definition

Democratic backsliding refers to the gradual decline of democratic institutions and practices, resulting in the erosion of civil liberties, weakening of checks and balances, and undermining of political pluralism. This phenomenon can manifest in various ways, such as authoritarian practices by elected leaders, curtailing media freedom, and suppressing opposition. In the context of the European Union, democratic backsliding raises concerns about the integrity of member states' governance and the EU's ability to uphold democratic values across its territories.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Several EU member states have experienced democratic backsliding in recent years, with Hungary and Poland being notable examples where governments have taken steps to centralize power and limit judicial independence.
2. The European Union has mechanisms in place to address democratic backsliding, such as the Article 7 procedure, which allows for sanctions against member states that violate fundamental EU values.
3. Democratic backsliding often includes tactics such as media censorship, weakening opposition parties, and manipulating electoral processes to maintain power.
4. The rise of populist movements in Europe has contributed to democratic backsliding by challenging established political norms and institutions, leading to increased polarization within societies.
5. Concerns over democratic backsliding have sparked debates within the EU about how to balance sovereignty with the need to uphold shared democratic values among its member states.

Review Questions

• How does democratic backsliding threaten the integrity of the European Union's core values?
  • Democratic backsliding threatens the integrity of the European Union's core values by undermining the principles of democracy, rule of law, and respect for human rights that are foundational to EU membership. When member states adopt authoritarian practices or erode judicial independence, it challenges the EU's ability to maintain a cohesive bloc committed to democratic governance. This situation not only risks destabilizing individual nations but also weakens the overall legitimacy and effectiveness of the EU as an institution dedicated to promoting democracy.
• What measures can the European Union take to address instances of democratic backsliding among its member states?
  • The European Union can employ several measures to address instances of democratic backsliding among its member states, including invoking Article 7 procedures which can lead to sanctions or suspension of voting rights for countries that violate democratic principles. Additionally, the EU can provide support for civil society organizations and independent media in member states facing authoritarian pressures. By fostering dialogue and promoting adherence to democratic norms, the EU can work towards countering backsliding efforts and reinforcing democratic governance within its borders.
• Evaluate the long-term implications of democratic backsliding for the future of the European Union as a political entity.
  • The long-term implications of democratic backsliding for the future of the European Union as a political entity could be profound. If left unaddressed, persistent erosion of democratic values in member states may lead to a fragmented Union where certain countries operate under increasingly authoritarian regimes. This situation could undermine collective decision-making processes and weaken solidarity among member nations. Moreover, it could prompt calls for reform within the EU itself regarding its governance structure and policies toward member states that stray from core democratic principles, ultimately reshaping its identity and function in global politics.

Related terms

Authoritarianism: A political system characterized by centralization of power and limited political freedoms, often enforced by a single leader or ruling party.

Rule of Law: The principle that all individuals and institutions are accountable to laws that are fairly applied and enforced, ensuring justice and equality.

Populism: A political approach that seeks to represent the interests of ordinary people, often against the established elite, which can sometimes lead to undermining democratic norms.