The decline of democracy in the United States is part of a larger global trend that is raising security concerns across the world, according to a new report. The report, which outlines findings from the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (IDEA), highlights that the erosion of democratic values in the U.S. has significant implications beyond its borders, particularly for Europe.
Democratic Backsliding and Global Security
The report indicates that in 2025, 98 out of 173 countries, or 57 percent, experienced a decline in at least one democratic factor over a five-year period, contrasting with only 55 countries that showed improvement. This marks the 11th consecutive year where more countries have witnessed a deterioration in democratic performance than those making advancements.
IDEA stresses that democratic decline poses a security threat on a global scale. The organization documented 65 violent conflicts around the world in 2025, the highest number recorded since 1946, including a historic eight conflicts occurring between nations. The report points out that hybrid political systems—characterized by some democratic processes but weak political competition and limited rights—have been more frequently associated with conflict than fully authoritarian regimes or robust democracies. According to IDEA Secretary General Kevin Casas-Zamora, low-performing democracies are in a precarious situation where conditions conducive to conflict are more likely to arise.
Casas-Zamora cited Russia as an example of this phenomenon, suggesting that a fully democratic Russia, characterized by checks and balances and a free press, would not likely have engaged in the invasion of Ukraine. He stated that democratic accountability could have prevented such actions.
While Europe continues to lead in democratic rankings, it too has witnessed a decline in democratic practices, recording 77 declines compared to 42 improvements from 2020 to 2025. Areas under pressure include civil liberties, access to justice, and the credibility of elections. A recent election in Germany exemplified this strain, with the far-right Alternative for Germany party securing 43.8 percent of the vote in Saxony-Anhalt, more than doubling its previous election result. In contrast, the mainstream CDU party saw its worst-ever performance in the eastern state, prompting a crisis for traditional political parties as they grapple with the AfD’s rise.
Why It Matters
The erosion of democratic values in influential countries like the U.S. and the resulting global security implications necessitate urgent attention from policymakers. As Europe faces its own democratic challenges, the interconnectedness of global affairs underscores the importance of addressing these trends collectively to preserve international stability and democratic integrity.
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