Podcast Summary
2024 elections trends: Despite a decade-long decline, democracy shows resilience in 2024 elections, but incumbents face voter dissatisfaction, particularly over economic issues
The year 2024 is significant for elections around the world, with more than 60 national governments conducting elections this year. The trends from the first half of these elections show a surprising resilience of democracy, despite its decline for over a decade. However, incumbents are increasingly facing voter dissatisfaction, particularly with regards to the economy. This was evident in the elections of France, the UK, and South Africa, among others. The choices made by the more than half of the world's population who live in countries holding elections this year will provide valuable insights into the state of democracy globally. Notable elections yet to take place include those in Venezuela, Georgia, and Ghana.
Embracing challenges: Actor Ted Danson shares how finding meaning in past regrets can lead to fondness, while NPR's LifeKit offers practical tips for enjoying summer despite budget or time constraints. Global stories highlight the resilience of democracy and the importance of making the most of every opportunity.
It's possible to find meaning and even fondness in past regrets, as actor Ted Danson shares on NPR's Wild Card podcast. Meanwhile, the LifeKit podcast offers practical tips for maximizing summer fun despite budget or time constraints. Looking at global politics, NPR's coverage highlights the resilience of democracy, with incumbents struggling and economic factors influencing voter decisions. In the second half of the year, important elections are coming up in Venezuela, Georgia, and Ghana. Venezuelan voter Jose Suarez, like millions, was forced to flee his country due to economic collapse and cannot vote. In Georgia, Tamara Sartanya is monitoring elections in the capital city. Merinoel Norcolo, born and raised in Ghana, shares insights on Ghana's upcoming election. Overall, these stories remind us of the importance of embracing life's challenges and making the most of every opportunity, whether at home or abroad.
Venezuela, Georgia elections: Despite challenges to democracy, people in Venezuela and Georgia continue to fight for their rights to vote and maintain independent media and civil society.
The elections in Venezuela and Georgia highlight the ongoing global tension between democracy and autocracy. In Venezuela, despite the ongoing humanitarian crisis and repression against political opposition, people still want to vote, making the election critical even if the conditions are far from free and fair. Meanwhile, in Georgia, thousands have protested against a new law reminiscent of Russian legislation, which has historically been used to suppress independent media and civil society. These events underscore the ongoing struggle between democratic values and autocratic rule.
Georgia, Ghana elections: The upcoming elections in Georgia and Ghana are crucial for their democratic future and political/economic stability in their respective regions.
The upcoming elections in both Georgia and Ghana hold significant importance for their respective countries and regions. In Georgia, the elections serve as a referendum on whether the country will continue to develop as a democratic nation or slide back into a Soviet-style dictatorship. With the incumbent government consolidating power at every level of governance, the stakes are incredibly high for Georgia's democratic future. Similarly, Ghana's elections are crucial for setting the direction of the country's political and economic future, especially in the context of West Africa's recent political instability and Ghana's reputation as a stable democracy. The global trend of democracy outperforming expectations and economic concerns driving voter motivation also holds true for these elections.
Elections priorities: People's priorities in elections are shifting towards addressing basic needs and holding governments accountable, but the success of opposition parties is not guaranteed due to a lack of confidence in them.
Across various regions in the world, including Latin America, Minnesota, and Ghana, people's priorities in elections are increasingly focused on addressing their basic needs and holding governments accountable for delivering solutions. However, the success of opposition parties in gaining voter support is not guaranteed, as seen in Georgia and other places where frustration with the incumbent is matched by a lack of confidence in the opposition. In Latin America, there has been a trend of voters choosing to elect new leaders due to unmet needs, regardless of party affiliation. In contrast, in places like Minnesota and Ghana, economic instability is the primary concern, and parties are adjusting their campaigns accordingly. Yet, the challenge remains that many voters, particularly younger generations, have grown disillusioned with politics and may not see any viable alternative. In the case of Venezuela, the election may provide an opportunity to transition back to democracy, but the outcome is uncertain. Overall, the conversation highlights the importance of addressing people's fundamental needs and the role of effective opposition in democratic processes.
Elections and economic fundamentals: Experts emphasized that economic stability and trustworthiness of political parties play crucial roles in election outcomes around the world.
Key takeaway from this episode of Consider This is that the outcome of various elections around the world hinges on economic fundamentals and the track record of those seeking power. NPR's global democracy correspondent, Frank Langford, led a discussion with three election experts: Merino El Nwokolo Ingana from the Brenthurst Foundation, Tamara Sartanya from Blisi, Georgia, and Tamara Tarasuk-Bronner from the Inter-American Dialogue, who are monitoring elections in different parts of the world. The experts emphasized the importance of economic stability and trustworthiness of political parties. Additionally, NPR announced the launch of the Consider This newsletter, where listeners can enjoy behind-the-scenes content, bonus episodes, and more. Lastly, the Pop Culture Happy Hour podcast from NPR offers insights on the latest season of The Bear, including thoughts on the characters and celebrity cameos.