The decline of democracy in the United States has led to decreased security in Europe and increased the risk of global conflicts. This conclusion comes from a new report published by the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance.
Impact on Alliances and International Laws
The report emphasizes that the weakening of democratic institutions and standards in the United States puts significant pressure on the alliances and international laws that other countries rely on. According to Kevin Casas-Zamora, Secretary General of IDEA, whatever happens in America has global consequences, and this is one of the major issues of today's world.
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Significant Declines in American Democratic Performance
The IDEA institute has identified seven significant declines in the democratic performance of the United States between 2020 and 2025, which include judicial independence, access to justice, parliamentary effectiveness, freedom of the press, and freedom of expression. Nearly half of the 30 indicators used to measure American democracy have reached their lowest level since 1975.
This downward trend has occurred against a deeply polarized backdrop in American politics. Recent analyses indicate that U.S. politics have increasingly become tribal, with rival groups viewing each other as threats and justifying anti-democratic behaviors when it suits them.
The report also notes the rapid consolidation of power by President Donald Trump in 2025, stating that these consequences have been profound and transnational, undermining the principles of the rule of law both domestically and internationally.
Global and Security Implications
Casas-Zamora emphasized that the declining process of democracy is not only a political problem but also a security issue. In 2025, 65 violent wars were recorded worldwide, the highest number since 1946. Hybrid political systems that have democratic procedures but weak political competition and enforceable rights have been more involved in conflicts than fully authoritarian systems or efficient democracies.
Casas-Zamora explained that this trend can also be observed in countries like Russia, stating, "If there were a fully democratic Russia with controlling institutions and freedom of the press, it is likely that it would not have attacked Ukraine."
Europe still ranks high in democratic standings, but between 2020 and 2025, it recorded 77 declines compared to 42 advancements. Civil liberties, access to justice, and credible elections are among the areas under pressure.
This situation is clearly evident in Germany, where the right-wing Alternative for Germany party received 43.8 percent of the votes in recent elections, raising concerns among mainstream parties.
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