Autocratic regimes outnumber democracies globally for first time in decades

For the first time in over two decades, the number of autocratic regimes in the world has surpassed the number of democracies. According to the latest report from the V-Dem Institute at the University of Gothenburg, there are now 92 autocratic states compared to 87 democracies.

Approximately 74 percent of the global population, or nearly six billion people, currently live under some form of autocracy. The report identifies a cyclical process driving this shift, involving the paralysis of the United Nations Security Council, the systematic erosion of media and academic freedom, and the targeting of electoral and judicial systems.

Furthermore, the trend includes significant shifts in established liberal democracies, with the V-Dem Institute noting that the United States has lost its status as a liberal democracy for the first time in over half a century. The report also highlights how autocratic leaders often utilize Western financial systems and real estate to launder wealth.