spread of democracy rule of law & liberal economies decline

• Theme 1: Democracy is in decline globally -> There has been a rise in authoritarianism and democratic backsliding in key regions. -> India – once hailed as the world’s largest democracy – has seen increased censorship, judicial interference, and suppression of dissent under the Modi government. ->Laws such as the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and state clampdowns on media and protests undermine democratic freedoms. -> India’s shift illustrates how even established democracies can erode internally, suggesting a global trend of weakening democratic norms.
• Theme 1: Democracy remains resilient or is resurging in some areas

  Recent electoral outcomes and civic movements show democratic values are still defended. -> Poland 2023 election – Pro-EU opposition coalition defeated the populist Law and Justice (PiS) party, signaling a pro-democracy resurgence. -> Voters rejected authoritarian reforms that undermined judicial independence and media freedom. -> This shows that where institutions and civil society remain strong, democratic backsliding can be reversed.
• Theme 2: For - rule of law -> Rule of law is under threat in many regions -> Increasing executive overreach and weakened judiciary in several countries. -> Israel's 2023 judicial reforms – Netanyahu's government tried to limit Supreme Court’s power. -> The proposed reforms sparked mass protests and were seen as an attempt to erode checks and balances. -> The backlash indicates strong public resistance, but the very attempt shows that rule of law is vulnerable to political manipulation.

• THEME 2 AGAINST: International legal institutions and national courts still function and push back -> The ICC and national legal systems continue to hold powerful individuals accountable. -> International Criminal Court issuing an arrest warrant for Putin (2023) over war crimes in Ukraine. ->Despite criticisms, this shows the ICC still plays a vital role in enforcing international legal norms. -> Upholding rule of law at the international level reflects continued relevance and strength, even amid challenges.

• THEME 3: Liberal economic order is being challenged

  Rise of protectionism and state-led economic models. -> China's expanding state capitalism and US protectionism under Biden's Inflation Reduction Act (2022). -> Governments are prioritizing domestic production and subsidies over free-market principles. -> The shift toward economic nationalism in both democratic and authoritarian states shows a move away from traditional liberal economic policies.
• THEME 3 AGAINST: Global economic cooperation and liberal markets are still prominent -> Many economies are still deeply committed to free trade and open markets. -> EU trade deals with countries like Japan and Mercosur and the CPTPP agreement in the Asia-Pacific. ->These agreements promote tariff reductions, open competition, and liberal trade principles. ->Despite setbacks, liberal economic frameworks remain central to many countries' growth strategies and global integration.