Introduction
The world is witnessing a prolonged decline in democratic institutions, with more countries experiencing regression than progress for nine consecutive years. This crisis is fueled by the misconception that political rights and socioeconomic well-being are separate or even opposing entities. However, history suggests otherwise: countries that protect political rights and liberties are those that achieve lasting prosperity.
The Interconnectedness of Democracy and Development
Shared development essentially means expanding the scope of freedoms and autonomy for individuals, making it unattainable without a democratic core. This is not merely a matter of principles but a practical necessity. It’s no coincidence that 27 out of the 30 countries best positioned on the United Nations’ Human Development Index are democracies.
The 2024 Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences winners, Daron Acemoglu, Simon Johnson, and James Robinson, have demonstrated how democratic governance fosters innovation, safeguards investments, and enhances financial oversight and accountability.
The Urgent Need for Action
With less than five years until the 2030 deadline for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, we continue debating governance models instead of implementing what we know works. Governments and multilateral institutions should vigorously promote both civil and political rights and social and economic rights, recognizing democracy as the most reliable driver of development.
Addressing Democratic Deficiencies
While we firmly believe in democracy’s pivotal role in development, we acknowledge its shortcomings. In both affluent and low-income countries, democratic health is often viewed as a distant concern involving abstract processes and political theater, while people are more concerned with immediate needs like personal safety, affordable food and healthcare, and a better future for their children.
These grievances are justified in a world where, according to some measurements, the richest 1% owns more wealth than the poorest 95%. Until we address rising inequality and the sense of injustice it breeds, democracy will continue to suffer.
A Human-Centered Democracy
An established democracy focused on human development must deliver fair and equitable results to the people it serves. This involves generating tangible benefits, such as improved access to healthcare and educational opportunities, freedom of expression, and labor rights.
Fortunately, the concept of a human-centered democracy is already evident in initiatives like the #KeepDemocracyAlive campaign by the Global Coalition for Democracy.
Multilateral System Alignment
The synergy between democracy and development should extend to the multilateral system. Many international organizations no longer meet current needs or align with new global configurations. Emerging powers in the Global South are right to demand a reform of the world’s economic and political order.
Justice in representation and power distribution within multilateral institutions like the World Bank, International Monetary Fund, and crucially, the UN Security Council, is not only long overdue but also essential to encourage cooperative modalities that benefit all.
Transformative Results from Mutual Reinforcement
When democracy and development mutually strengthen each other, the results are transformative. Democratic freedoms empower citizens, improve social inclusion, and stimulate economic growth. In turn, development bolsters the credibility and public trust in democratic governments.
To sustain human progress amidst radical change and uncertainty, democracy and development must go hand in hand.
About the Authors
Aminata Touré, former Prime Minister of Senegal, is the President’s representative and a member of the Club de Madrid.
Kevin Casas-Zamora, former Vice President of Costa Rica, is the Secretary General of the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance.
Copyright
Project Syndicate, 1995 – 2025
www.project-syndicate.org
