The shadowlands of democracy

KARACHI:

Democracy is on a transformative journey in the dawning era of the 21st century. It has become more complicated and faces significant challenges. It goes beyond the traditional concept of emphasising the protection of human rights, rule of law, and accountability of elected leaders. With the rise of technology, democracy now includes digital participation, online platforms for citisen engagement, and increased transparency in government processes.

The failure of democracy in third-world countries is a recurring and pressing issue that demands a thorough examination to understand its underlying causes. Several factors contribute to this disheartening trend.

Firstly, a legacy of colonialism has left these nations grappling with weak institutions, inadequate infrastructure, and economic disparities, impeding the development of a strong democratic foundation.

Secondly, the prevalence of poverty, illiteracy, and social inequality further compounds the challenges, breeding social unrest and hindering the establishment of a democratic culture. Thirdly, Corruption, nepotism, and the lack of accountability among political leaders corrode public trust, eroding the very essence of democracy. Ethnic, religious, and tribal divisions fracture societies along identity lines, undermining the creation of inclusive democratic institutions.

External influences, such as geopolitical interests and interventions by powerful nations, disrupt the democratic process, perpetuating instability. Additionally, globalisation and international financial institutions impose economic dependencies, limiting policy choices and impeding socio-economic progress.

Democracy vs military interventions

Since its independence in 1947, Pakistan has experienced intermittent periods of civilian rule marred by prolonged military interventions, which have significantly hindered the consolidation of democratic institutions. The military's influence in politics has often overshadowed democratic processes, impeded the development of a robust democratic culture and eroded public trust. Instances of martial law, coups, and prolonged military rule have created an environment of political uncertainty and instability, thwarted the growth of democratic institutions and impeded the nation's progress.

Moreover, ethnic and regional divisions have posed significant challenges to the democratic fabric of Pakistan. These fault lines have often resulted in political fragmentation, identity-based conflicts, and a struggle for power among various groups. The polarising nature of Pakistani politics has hindered the creation of a cohesive national identity and impeded the establishment of inclusive democratic institutions that can effectively address the concerns of diverse communities.

In addition, the role of religious extremism and militancy has cast a shadow over Pakistan's democratic journey. Terrorist attacks, insurgency, and sectarian violence have created an environment of fear and instability, further exacerbating the challenges faced by democratic institutions. Balancing security concerns with the imperatives of democratic governance has proven to be a formidable task for Pakistan, as it navigates a delicate path toward stability and inclusivity.

Class and caste tussle

Pakistan's political landscape continues to grapple with significant hurdles that impede the flourishing of democracy. The dominance of powerful political dynasties, characterised by a concentration of power within selected few families, undermines the principles of equal representation and fair competition. This monopolisation of authority perpetuates a culture of patronage, nepotism, and favoritism, preventing the emergence of new voices and stifling genuine democratic progress.

Similarly, India stands as the largest democracy globally, yet the true essence of democratic values has not fully permeated the hearts and minds of its people. While it is indeed a remarkable feat that even the most marginalised and impoverished individuals possess the right to vote, Indian society still has a long way to go to achieve true equality in spirit. Throughout its history, Indian politics has been dominated by figures like Gandhi and Nehru, who have exerted significant influence since the country's inception. Similarly, in Pakistan, political dynasties such as the Bhuttos, Mukhdooms, Mazari, Mengal, Watto, Mian, Abbasi, Sharif, and Chaudhrys have maintained their power by passing down their crowns to the next generation. Consequently, the emergence of fresh faces in Pakistan's political arena is consistently suppressed.

As a result, the political landscape in both India and Pakistan remains entrenched in a cycle of familial power, where the torch is passed down from one generation to another within established political dynasties. This dynastic control stifles the entry of new faces and fresh ideas into the political arena, hindering the growth and development of a diverse and dynamic democracy.

While the right to vote has been extended to all citisens, regardless of their social status or economic standing, the true essence of democracy lies not only in the act of voting but in fostering an environment where every voice is heard and valued. True democratic spirit transcends mere electoral processes; it entails creating a society that upholds principles of equality, inclusivity, and justice.

The case of India

India, with its vast population and rich diversity, has the potential to be a beacon of democracy for the world. However, the dominance of established political families has limited the scope for new leaders to emerge, bring fresh perspectives, and drive transformative change. Similarly, in Pakistan, the stranglehold of political dynasties stifles the growth of a robust and pluralistic political landscape.

To truly embrace the democratic spirit, both India and Pakistan need to break free from the shackles of entrenched political hierarchies. This requires creating a level playing field that allows individuals from all walks of life, irrespective of their family background, to participate actively in politics. It necessitates nurturing an environment where merit, competence, and ideas take precedence over inherited power and influence.

The emergence of new faces in the political realm can invigorate the democratic process, infuse it with fresh ideas, and provide an opportunity for genuine representation of the people's aspirations. By encouraging and supporting the rise of new leaders, India and Pakistan can breathe new life into their democracies, fostering a spirit of genuine participation, inclusivity, and progress.

Both nations must move beyond the dominance of established political families and embrace a more inclusive and diverse political landscape. Only then can they truly harness the power of democracy, allowing the voices of all citisens to shape the future of their respective nations. The transformation from dynastic control to a vibrant democracy will require collective efforts, societal change, and a steadfast commitment to the ideals of democracy.

Moreover, corruption remains a pervasive issue, with numerous high-profile scandals highlighting the erosion of ethical standards and accountability within the political sphere. Weak democratic institutions, coupled with limited checks and balances, further exacerbate the problem, allowing for the unchecked exercise of power and hampering the establishment of a truly participatory democracy. Unless these systemic challenges are effectively addressed, Pakistan's democratic journey will continue to face an uphill battle towards inclusive governance and transparency.

Democratic institutions

The strength of a democracy lies in its institutions. In Pakistan, the judiciary, media, and civil society play vital roles in upholding democratic values. However, challenges such as corruption, institutional inefficiency, and political interference continue to undermine the credibility and independence of these institutions.

Pakistan's democratic institutions, including the military and judiciary, have faced substantial criticism for their impact on the nation's democratic landscape. The country's powerful military, historically influential in political affairs, has been accused of intervening in civilian governance and shaping policy decisions, thereby undermining the principle of civilian control over the military.

Such interference erodes the democratic process by impeding the free and fair functioning of elected governments. Similarly, the judiciary's susceptibility to external pressures and politicisation has raised concerns about the impartiality and independence of the judicial system. Instances of selective accountability and the manipulation of legal processes for political gains have further strained public trust in the judiciary's ability to uphold democratic values. Addressing these systemic issues and ensuring the autonomy and integrity of these institutions is crucial for fostering a robust democratic framework in Pakistan.

For Pakistan to maintain a sustainable democracy, fostering economic and social growth is of utmost importance. A strong and inclusive economy plays a pivotal role in providing opportunities, reducing poverty, and addressing socio-economic disparities. By generating employment, encouraging investment, and promoting entrepreneurship, economic growth empowers citisens, allowing them to actively participate in democratic processes and make informed choices. Simultaneously, addressing social challenges such as education, healthcare, and gender equality is vital for fostering an informed and engaged citisenry.

A well-educated population is better equipped to understand and exercise their democratic rights, while improved healthcare services ensure a healthy and productive workforce. Additionally, promoting social cohesion and inclusivity creates a sense of belonging and strengthens democratic values, mitigating potential social divisions. By prioritising economic and social growth, Pakistan can build a foundation for a thriving democracy that upholds the aspirations and well-being of its diverse citisenry.

The intricate relationship between freedom and democracy in Pakistan stands at a fragile junction, as evidenced by a plethora of data and figures. Reporters Without Borders ranks Pakistan 145th out of 180 countries in terms of press freedom, with journalists facing threats, censorship, and violent attacks for their reporting.

Furthermore, data from human rights organisations indicate a concerning rise in enforced disappearances, extrajudicial killings, and restrictions on freedom of expression. The 2020 Freedom House report classifies Pakistan as "partly free," highlighting limitations on political rights and civil liberties. These figures collectively portray a precarious landscape, where the exercise of freedom is often curtailed, impeding the robust functioning of democratic institutions. To safeguard this delicate nexus, Pakistan have no other choice rather than to work towards fostering a climate of open dialogue, protecting human rights, and empowering its citisens to ensure that freedom and democracy can coexist harmoniously.

Route to democracy: Turkey

Turkey's trajectory towards democratic consolidation has encountered significant obstacles in recent years. The country's democratic decline can be attributed to a combination of factors, including increasing authoritarianism, curtailment of civil liberties, and the erosion of checks and balances. Under President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, there has been a consolidation of power in the executive branch, with a crackdown on media freedom, civil society, and political opponents. The failed coup attempt in 2016 further provided a pretext for suppressing dissent and centralising power. Additionally, constitutional changes have expanded presidential powers, weakening the role of parliament and judicial independence. These developments have resulted in a shrinking space for political pluralism and a deterioration of democratic norms in Turkey.

Route to democracy: Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe has experienced a tumultuous journey towards democracy. Despite gaining independence in 1980, the country has faced significant challenges in achieving democratic governance. The ruling party, ZANU-PF, has maintained a firm grip on power through electoral manipulation, intimidation of political opponents, and restrictions on press freedom. The government's land redistribution policies, initially aimed at addressing historical injustices, were often marred by corruption and human rights abuses. The concentration of power in the hands of the ruling elite, economic mismanagement, and high levels of corruption have hindered Zimbabwe's democratic progress, leading to a weakening of democratic institutions and erosion of public trust.

Route to democracy: Venezuela

Venezuela serves as an illustrative example of a developing country where democracy has faced significant challenges. The erosion of democracy in Venezuela can be attributed to several factors. Political polarisation and the concentration of power in the hands of a single leader contributed to weakened democratic institutions and checks and balances. The government's control over the judiciary, media, and electoral processes limited opposition voices and hindered the free flow of information. Economic mismanagement and corruption further exacerbated social inequality and discontent among the population, eroding faith in democratic processes. The erosion of democratic norms, coupled with the government's authoritarian tendencies, ultimately resulted in the breakdown of democratic governance and the rise of an autocratic regime.

Route to democracy: Myanmar

Myanmar provides another case study where democracy has suffered setbacks. Despite a brief period of democratic transition, the military's influence and control over key institutions posed a significant obstacle to democratisation. The military's grip on power, evident through constitutional provisions that reserved a significant number of seats for military representatives, limited the prospects of genuine democratic reform.

The Rohingya crisis, marked by human rights abuses and ethnic cleansing, further strained Myanmar's democratic progress and tarnished its international image. The military's coup in 2021 and subsequent repression of pro-democracy movements dealt a severe blow to democratic aspirations, leading to the suspension of democratic institutions and the restoration of military rule.

Route to democracy: Bangladesh:

Bangladesh has made strides towards democratic governance since its independence, but it continues to face significant challenges. The country's political landscape has been marred by frequent episodes of political violence, polarisation, and a lack of consensus-building among political parties. The ruling Awami League and the opposition BNP have engaged in a cycle of confrontational politics, resulting in street protests, strikes, and disruptions to public life.

The political environment has been further strained by allegations of election irregularities and limited space for opposition voices. Ensuring a sustainable and inclusive democracy in Bangladesh requires addressing these challenges by promoting dialogue, fostering a culture of political tolerance, and strengthening democratic institutions to guarantee free and fair elections and protect the rights of all citisens.

The democracy of slums

The survival of democracy in slums and developing countries remains a formidable challenge, and Pakistan is no exception. Slums, characterised by high levels of poverty, limited access to basic services, and social exclusion, create an environment where the tenets of democracy struggle to take root and thrive. In such marginalised communities, political empowerment, civic engagement, and the protection of individual freedoms face immense obstacles. The dire socio-economic conditions prevalent in slums often breed disillusionment, creating fertile ground for non-democratic forces to exploit vulnerabilities and manipulate public sentiment.

To ensure the sustainability of democracy in such settings, it is crucial to address the root causes of poverty, inequality, and social exclusion, while simultaneously strengthening democratic institutions, promoting political awareness, and empowering marginalised communities. Only through inclusive development, equitable governance, and targeted interventions can the nexus between democracy and slums be transformed, paving the way for a resilient and vibrant democratic future in Pakistan and beyond.

Democracy can thrive in the third world if the state institutions fulfill their designated roles, if countries resist external dictates, if freedom of the media is safeguarded, if the rule of law prevails, if the principles of a welfare state are embraced, if human rights and the will of the people are prioritised, and most significantly, if the influence of personalised politics and dictatorial governance is curtailed.

 

Ali Asad Sabir is a political economist and senior research assistant at the Institute of Development and Economics Alternatives (IDEAS). Abdul Rehman Nawaz is a research assistant at IDEAS. All facts and information are the sole responsibility of the writers.