WEEK 8 – DEMOCRATIC BACKSLIDING AND DECONSOLIDATION

What is democratic backsliding?

The gradual weakening of democratic institutions, rights, and norms.

What is democratic deconsolidation?

A decline in public support for democracy and democratic institutions.

What did Francis Fukuyama mean by the "End of History"?

The idea that liberal democracy had become the dominant and final form of government.

What is the democratic recession?

The global decline in democratic quality and performance.

What evidence suggests declining trust in democracy in Australia?

Younger Australians are less likely than older Australians to believe democracy is the best form of government.

What institutional factors contribute to democratic decline?

Electoral system flaws, declining party membership, weak accountability, and failures of representation.

What is mediated representation?

Representation through institutions such as political parties and parliaments.

How can poor governance contribute to democratic decline?

It reduces trust in politicians and democratic institutions.

According to Levitsky and Ziblatt

how can democracies die?,Through the actions of elected leaders who weaken democratic norms and institutions.

How has economic inequality contributed to democratic dissatisfaction?

It creates perceptions of unfairness and exclusion.

How has globalisation contributed to democratic tensions?

By creating economic winners and losers.

How can social media threaten democracy?

Through misinformation, polarisation, and hate speech.

How can social media strengthen democracy?

By enabling participation, mobilisation, and access to information.

What reforms are proposed to address democratic backsliding?

Electoral reform, anti-corruption measures, civic education, media regulation, and strengthening democratic norms.