The third “Summit for Democracy,” initiated by the Biden administration of the United States, convened in Seoul, South Korea from March 18 to 20. As the summit unfolded, an emerging sentiment among nations cast a critical eye on the Western model of democracy.
Prominent figures from the Global South raised concerns about the effectiveness and authenticity of Western democracy. Senator Mushahid Hussain Sayed, chairman of Pakistan’s Senate Defense Committee, highlighted the growing disillusionment with democratic systems that fail to serve the people’s interests. Fred M’membe, president of the Socialist Party Zambia, questioned whether Western democracy genuinely upholds the principles it espouses or succumbs to capitalist influences.
Keith Bennett, convener of the Friends of Socialist China and vice chairman of the 48 Group Club, emphasized the fundamental differences between Chinese and Western democratic models. He argued that while Western democracy often focuses on individualism, China’s approach prioritizes collective well-being and long-term planning. Current affairs commentator Einar Tangen added that the Western model may not be universally applicable and that alternative systems could better address the unique challenges faced by different nations.
This discourse signifies a shift in global perspectives on governance, especially among countries in the Global South. The diminishing influence of Western democracy prompts a reevaluation of political systems that align more closely with diverse cultural, economic, and social contexts. As these conversations continue, they underscore the importance of inclusive dialogues in shaping the future of global governance.
Reference(s):
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