Curr Iss Zoom: Future of Democracy

2024: The Year of (the End of) Democracy
Four Zoom Sessions
Wed., Oct. 9, 16, 23, 30, 2024, 6:30-8:30 pm MT

As U.S.-based think tank Center for American Progress observes, “In 2024, more than 2 billion voters across 50 countries will head to the polls in a record-breaking number of elections around the world.” After almost two decades of democratic decline, Christoph Stefes, a political science professor, says 2024 marks "a crucial year“ for the future of democracy. Will the downward trend be reversed or might even the oldest democracy give way to an illiberal, if not undemocratic form of government? Join Stefes as he explores possible answers and the future of democracy. Begin with an overview of political developments around the world since the end of the Cold War. Next, reflect on the 1990s which were, according to political scientist Francis Fukuyama, years of hope and the victory of liberalism and democracy. Then learn how this illusion was quickly shattered with the return of autocratic rule in the 2000s. Also, analyze the causes of democratic decline in some of the countries where 2024 elections will shape new paths. Consider some of the most populous countries, such as the United States and India, as well as some of the lesser-known ones, such as Hungary and Georgia. And finally, investigate why democracy might be worth fighting for, and how that battle can be won.

Christoph Stefes is a political science professor at the University of Colorado Denver who works in the field of comparative politics. His research has focused on autocratic regimes and democratization, informal institutions and corruption, the politics of energy transitions, and environmental crime. He has won awards for research and teaching.