The democratic space around the world is shrinking

It is now largely accepted that the democratic space around the world is shrinking. Some of the chief characteristics of this shift include: increased power and control by the executive of the legislature; an erosion of traditional accountability mechanisms; severe legal restrictions on freedom of speech and assembly; a proliferation of misleading and unaccountable social media platforms; and the growing trend of maintaining geopolitical compromises at the expense of stated democratic principles.

There is widespread concern about these trends – mostly expressed within the academic sector. However, it is now acknowledged that there needs to be a greater public understanding and consequent action on political power – other than through protest demonstrations – to give a voice to people, ensure that governments are obliged to hear the public voice, and to alter legislation accordingly.

Our new Commission on Political Power has a modest aim – to document the limitations on civil and democratic freedoms, as well as their actual and potential impact, to broadcast this information and make suggestions for reform.

We do not aim to provide definitive solutions in this first phase – this can only be realistically achieved following extensive consultation with the wider public and with people and organisations who have explored the possibilities. That said, we believe that there is great value in recording and publishing the extent to which the democratic space and the institutions of democracy are threatened.

Through the Commission of Political Power, we aim to create a hub for ideas and discussion and consider the potential solutions to secure our democratic future – at a time when such work has never been more urgent.

Please return to this website for regular updates. The Commission aims to publish a series of blogs suggesting ideas and an initial 'green paper' by the Autumn of 2022.