Endangered Democracies ? | Speaking with Santi Vila
Democracies in the spotlight
In recent years, the stability of democracies has been threatened by multiple factors, from political polarization to the rise of authoritarian leaders who challenge traditional norms. According to Santi Vila, professor at the School of Philosophy and Humanities at La Salle Campus Barcelona and Spanish politician, “Western democracies face a legitimacy challenge, fueled by social polarization and disinformation.”
The democratic crisis is not limited to developing countries; it can also be observed in the more consolidated democracies, such as the United States, where recent debates about the legitimacy of electoral processes and the growing distrust in institutions raise an urgent question: are our democracies in real danger?
U.S. Elections: More than a Vote
What's at stake?
The 2024 U.S. presidential election between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris will not only determine who will lead the nation for years to come but also reflect the state of health of its democratic system. Among the most prominent issues on the election agenda, we find:
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Civil and social rights
Debates over reproductive rights, gender equality and immigration policies have polarized U.S. society. Vila states that “these issues are not just an ideological battle, but a litmus test for democracies, which must adapt to social changes and guarantee fundamental rights.”
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Climate change
In a world marked by the climate crisis, the United States plays a central role in defining global policies. The outcome of these elections could strengthen or weaken international commitments to curb global warming.
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International relations and geopolitics
The United States remains a key player on the global stage. Tensions with powers such as China and Russia, as well as support for Ukraine in the conflict with Russia, are issues that will define its international leadership in the coming years.
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Technology and disinformation
In an era where social networks and artificial intelligence shape public opinion, the ethical use of these tools becomes a priority. Vila points out that “the battle against disinformation is crucial to preserve the integrity of democracies.”
A crisis of trust
The global impact of these elections cannot be underestimated. Modern democracies face a recurring problem: the loss of trust in institutions. In the United States, the attacks on the legitimacy of the 2020 elections left a deep mark, fueling conspiracy theories and further dividing society.
Santi Vila stresses that “the key to strengthening democracies lies in regaining citizen trust and guaranteeing transparency in electoral processes”. However, achieving this goal requires a joint effort, both at the institutional and citizen level.
Democracies in transition
It is not all bad news. Despite the challenges, democracies continue to show remarkable resilience. New social movements, greater citizen participation and advances in civic technology show that there is hope. Vila emphasizes, “It is not just a matter of resisting current threats, but of building systems that are more resilient, inclusive and adapted to the needs of the 21st century.”
However, the road is not easy. The growing gap between political elites and the citizenry, coupled with massive misinformation, remains a real threat. It is therefore crucial to foster a culture of dialogue and civic education if democracies are not only to survive, but to thrive.
Final thoughts | Where are we going?
Santi Vila's analysis invites us to reflect on the state of today's democracies and their ability to adapt to an increasingly complex global environment. The U.S. elections represent a key moment, not only for the country, but also for the international community.
In Vila's words: “Democracy is a project under constant construction. We cannot take it for granted; we must nurture it, question it and reinvent it every day.” This call to action resonates not only at the ballot box, but in every aspect of our lives as responsible citizens.
At La Salle Campus Barcelona we aim to train professionals in the field of social sciences and humanities, accessing a degree deeply rooted in the Anglo-Saxon educational system since the early twentieth century.
UNIVERSITY DEGREE IN PHILOSOPHY, POLITICS AND ECONOMICS | LA SALLE-URL