International | Elections everywhere

Over a billion have voted in 2024: has democracy won?

Half the world has had elections so far this year

Illustration of a metal periscope emerging from a large pile of white ballot boxes against a solid blue background
Illustration: Edmon de Haro

In little less than a month, when Americans go to the polls to choose their next president, democracy will face its most important test in a year in which it is being put through its paces like never before. What happens in America—a superpower that embodies liberty for many people—could sway perceptions of the health of democracies around the world. A messy or violent outcome would inspire autocrats everywhere and undermine faith in the ideal of rule by the people. Conversely, a well-run election in which the loser gracefully concedes would strengthen the green shoots of a democratic recovery evident in some countries amid the biggest year of elections in history.

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This article appeared in the International section of the print edition under the headline “Over a billion have voted in 2024: has democracy won?”

From the October 12th 2024 edition

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