Summary
A global report from V-Dem Institute highlights a decline in democracy in many Western countries, with the United States experiencing a rapid decrease. The 2026 U.S. midterm elections are seen as an important test for democratic health. The report points to reduced free expression and weakened rule of law as key issues in this decline.
Key Facts
- The report by V-Dem Institute shows U.S. democracy is declining quickly compared to other modern democracies.
- It states that nearly a quarter of countries globally are becoming less democratic, including the U.S., the U.K., and Italy.
- The 2026 U.S. midterm elections are considered crucial for assessing U.S. democracy.
- The report highlights a decline in free speech and the rule of law worldwide.
- The study tracks democracy across 202 countries and uses data from over 4,200 experts.
- Democratic aspects such as rule of law and checks on government power are deteriorating in the U.S. and elsewhere.
- The U.S. saw a significant drop in its Liberal Democracy Index, falling in global rankings from 20th to 51st.
- The decline is linked to President Donald Trump’s second term, during which power concentrated in the presidency and attacks on the press and judiciary occurred.
