Democracy & Governance

International election observers have significantly contributed to Kyrgyzstan's democratisation and transitional justice in the aftermath of the 2005 and 2010 political upheavals. It is worth reflecting on election observation as not merely a technical exercise but also a deeply human rights-oriented endeavour.

Recent elections have seen a surge in far-right movements, raising concerns about the future of human rights across the European Union. This post delves into the potential consequences of this political shift and its impact on the continent.

The new local architecture developed unilaterally by President Said presents a model of governance bound to pose serious challenges to democracy-building efforts in a young democracy like Tunisia. Above all, it would continue to widen the gap between citizens - particularly young people increasingly disengaged from political life - and those in power.

The interplay between states and corporations is complex because of the increasingly blurred line between their spheres of influence. It is worth exploring the benefits of deliberative governance as a means of transparency in the decision-making process that fosters public participation and effective environmental protection.

Whistleblowing, particularly on issues that relate to human rights, is an important means of keeping governments accountable. Some whistleblowers could also be viewed as carrying out the function of a human rights defender. This designation can help improve their protection under the ECHR.

The African Union has been criticised for not doing enough to help the continent overcome its many crises. Why do African leaders still run to the West for help and could the Union do more to fulfil its mandate of finding African solutions to African problems?

Global technology giants are shaping the future of African politics in complex and myriad ways. Big tech offers powerful tools to engage citizens and enhance democracy. However, tighter regulation and greater accountability is needed to combat voter manipulation, misinformation and privacy concerns.

Public and political influence of the extreme right has grown exponentially in Latin America. Jair Bolsonaro has already held power in Brazil while paleolibertarian Javier Milei was recently elected president in Argentina. What dangers does this pose for democracy?

The context and dynamics of suffrage and the overall ability of citizens to claim their rights have changed. Inequality, which the COVID-19 pandemic magnified, and extreme polarisation deter citizens from meaningful participation. A rights-based approach to address these problems is imperative.

The COVID-19 pandemic was a large-scale human disaster on all fronts. It is worth identifying four structural defects in the governance response, ten lessons that need to be imbibed and a five point agenda for change.