Countries

Georgia has experienced cycles of democratic reform and institutional fragility since gaining independence in 1991. Over the last decade, however, the ruling Georgian Dream Party founded by Bidzina Ivanishvili has consolidated authoritarian control.

Guatemala has a checkered past with respect to democracy. High level-corruption has remained rampant. Judicial and prosecutorial independence have been significantly undermined. Independent judges, prosecutors and anti-corruption journalists now face criminalization, exile and physical threats.  

As Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s model of “illiberal democracy” is emulated around the world, an understanding of Hungary’s authoritarian toolkit is vital for assessing the scope for democracy renewal there as well as in other countries.

Mexico began its transition to democracy in the late 1990s and early 2000s, following decades of one-party rule. While the process was gradual and uneven, it produced important democratic gains. However, recent reform efforts have raised serious concerns about democratic backsliding. 

The October 2023 election defeat of the autocratically-inclined Law and Justice Party created an opportunity to restore the rule of law and strengthen democratic institutions. Important work remains to ensure accountability for rights violations and protect the rule of law. 

Senegal is often described as one of Africa’s most stable democracies. However, recent developments have raised concerns about democratic decline. 

Democracy and the rule of law are confronting serious challenges in the United States. The system of checks and balances—essential for upholding the rule of law—faces mounting strain.