Global Index for Free and Fair Elections Hits Record Decline in 2023, Warns Democracy Watchdog

STOCKHOLM (Reuters) – An intergovernmental watchdog has issued a warning regarding the declining voter turnout and the increasingly contested nature of election results globally, which are undermining the credibility of electoral processes. The latest report indicates that the sub-index for free and fair elections has experienced its most significant decline on record in 2023.

According to the Stockholm-based International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (IDEA), 2023 marks the eighth consecutive year of net decline in overall democratic performance, the longest continuous drop since records began in 1975.

IDEA’s Global State of Democracy index evaluates over 100 variables, categorizing performance into four main areas: representation, rights, rule of law, and participation. In the subset related to free and fair elections, which falls under representation, 2023 was noted as the worst year on record.

"This report serves as a call to action to safeguard democratic elections," stated Kevin Casas-Zamora, Secretary-General of IDEA. "The success of democracy relies on various factors, but it becomes unattainable if elections fail."

The think tank reported an increase in government intimidation and irregularities in the electoral process, including fraudulent voter registration and issues with vote counting. Furthermore, threats of foreign interference, disinformation, and the growing influence of artificial intelligence in political campaigns were highlighted as additional challenges.

Voter participation worldwide fell to 55.5% of eligible voters in 2023, down from 65.2% in 2008. Between 2020 and 2024, nearly 20% of elections saw one of the losing candidates or parties contesting the results.

The report noted that democratic performance in the United States, which is set to hold a presidential election this year, has shown some recovery in the last two years. However, the recent assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump underscored ongoing risks. IDEA found that less than half (47%) of Americans perceive the 2020 election as having been "free and fair," and the nation continues to experience significant polarization.