Trends in the 2024 Global Elections: Implications for Polarization, Instability, and Future Policies

In 2024, the world will witness a historic moment in democracy, as more than half of the global population will participate in elections across 76 countries. This unprecedented surge in electoral engagement, covering nations from the United States to Indonesia, presents both an opportunity and a challenge for the global political landscape.

The year 2024 stands as a critical test for liberal democracy. In countries like the United States, the presidential election promises to be a pivotal and potentially polarizing event. The likely face-off between Joe Biden and Donald Trump could deepen the political divide, impacting not just American politics but the global order. This election, along with others in major democracies like India and Indonesia, will significantly influence global policies on issues ranging from economic reforms to international relations.

The Economist Intelligence Unit’s Democracy Index highlights a stark contrast in the nature of democracies worldwide. While Western Europe boasts high scores, regions like the Middle East and North Africa lag behind. This disparity…