If Hungary Can Do It...: Reversing Democracy’s Decline with Staffan Lindberg

What does democracy truly mean in 2026, and how can we ensure its survival? What hope can the recent election in Hungary offer for reversing the slide of democracy in the US and elsewhere? Host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush talks with Dr. Staffan I. Lindberg, founder of the Varieties of Democracy Institute, about V-Dem’s latest global report titled, Unraveling the Democratic Era?

The report raises crucial questions about the future of democratic governance. It underscores the importance of understanding both the successes and failures of democratic systems, prompting a reevaluation of what democracy means in different contexts.

Key takeaways include:

- Democracy is Multifaceted: The state of democracy varies significantly across different nations, and understanding local contexts is crucial for promoting democratic values.

- Engagement is Essential: Electoral participation and civic engagement are critical in challenging authoritarian regimes.

- Concession Matters: Accepting electoral defeat is a vital component of maintaining democratic integrity.