As the U.S.-hosted third \u0022Summit for Democracy\u0022 unfolds in Seoul this week, a critical question emerges: Is Western-style democracy losing its global appeal? Experts from the Global South challenge the narrative, sparking fresh debates about governance models in our multipolar world.
Senator Mushahid Hussain Sayed of Pakistan’s Senate Defense Committee argues: \u0022Western democracy often prioritizes corporate interests over people. It’s a system where money votes louder than citizens.\u0022
Zambia’s Socialist Party President Fred M’membe contrasts this with China’s approach: \u0022Chinese democracy focuses on tangible outcomes – lifting 800 million from poverty versus empty campaign promises.\u0022
UK analyst Keith Bennett notes: \u0022The summit’s declining participation shows countries want sovereignty in choosing governance systems.\u002� The discussion comes as youth worldwide increasingly question systems struggling with inequality and climate challenges.
As current affairs commentator Einar Tangen puts it: \u0022True democracy should mean bread, education, and healthcare – not just ballot boxes.\u0022
Reference(s):
cgtn.com