Surging political violence

Political violence is intensifying across the globe, presenting an existential threat to democracy and societal stability. This surge in violence is not a series of isolated incidents but a troubling global trend that demands immediate and decisive action. Recent events, such as the attempted assassination of Donald Trump and the alarming findings from the Open Society Barometer survey, underscore the urgency of addressing this escalating crisis. If left unchecked, political violence could dismantle the very fabric of our societies.

The Open Society Barometer survey, conducted between May and July 2023, reveals deeply unsettling trends. With 36,000 respondents from 30 countries, the survey highlights that 58% of the global population fears political unrest could lead to violence within the next year. This fear is most pronounced in South Africa, Kenya, Colombia, Nigeria, Senegal, Argentina, and Pakistan, where more than 70% of respondents expressed concern. In Pakistan, already grappling with significant political and economic instability, the survey results are particularly troubling. Although 79% of Pakistanis value democratic governance, only 56% believe democracy is preferable to other forms of government. This disillusionment, exacerbated by prolonged political polarisation since the ouster of former Prime Minister Imran Khan in 2022, fuels fears of impending political violence.

The attempted assassination of Donald Trump in Butler, Pennsylvania, is a stark reminder of the growing political violence in the United States. Trump's presidency has been marked by incendiary rhetoric and a rise in violent incidents at his rallies. This atmosphere has emboldened supporters to commit acts of political violence, from Cesar Sayoc's 2018 bomb mailings to the 2022 attack on Paul Pelosi by David DePape. The January 6, 2021, Capitol riot epitomises this trend, where an angry mob attempted to overturn the 2020 election results, threatening lawmakers and chanting for the hanging of Vice President Mike Pence. Such violent expressions of political discontent are not confined to the US but reflect a broader global pattern of escalating political violence.

Renowned political theorist Hannah Arendt once warned that "violence can destroy power; it is utterly incapable of creating it." Yet, the allure of violence as a means to an end persists, driven by a combination of political polarisation, economic inequality and social injustice. In Brazil, supporters of former President Jair Bolsonaro stormed government buildings in Brasília in January 2023, contesting the election results favoring Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. This violent protest mirrored the US Capitol riot and highlighted the fragility of Brazil's democratic institutions. In Myanmar, the military coup in February 2021 led to widespread protests and brutal crackdowns, resulting in thousands of deaths and a severe humanitarian crisis. Ethiopia's conflict in the Tigray region has spiraled into ethnic violence, causing massive displacement and severe humanitarian crises. In Hong Kong, pro-democracy protests in 2019 escalated into violent confrontations, with the imposition of the National Security Law by China further intensifying the crackdown on political dissent.

The rise in political violence has dire consequences. It erodes trust in democratic institutions, leading to increased support for authoritarian solutions. Violent political rhetoric deepens societal divides, making dialogue and compromise increasingly difficult. Political violence disrupts economic activities, deterring investment and exacerbating poverty and inequality. In extreme cases, political violence can lead to mass displacement, human rights abuses and severe humanitarian crises.

Practical solutions must be enacted to stem the tide of political violence. Strengthening democratic institutions is crucial. As former UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan stated, "The rule of law is the all-important framework within which any society is built." Robust, transparent and accountable institutions are essential in preventing political violence. Promoting open and inclusive dialogue among political actors can help address grievances and reduce polarisation. Educating citizens about democratic values and the importance of non-violent political participation can foster a culture of peace and tolerance. Tackling poverty, inequality and social injustices can reduce the underlying factors that drive political violence. As Nobel Laureate Amartya Sen has argued, "Development requires the removal of major sources of unfreedom", including poverty and systemic inequality. Global efforts to support democratic governance and human rights can help stabilise regions prone to political violence and unrest.

Political violence is a growing menace that threatens the very foundations of democracy and societal stability. The alarming findings of the Open Society Barometer survey and recent violent incidents underscore the urgency of addressing this crisis. By strengthening democratic institutions, promoting dialogue and addressing socioeconomic disparities, we can work towards a more peaceful and stable world. The time to act is now - before political violence engulfs our societies in irreversible turmoil. As Martin Luther King Jr famously said, "Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere." The escalating political violence we witness today is a profound injustice that threatens us all. We must confront it with unwavering resolve and a commitment to building a just and peaceful society.