Democracy in the World

3 Credits · Level: Graduate, Undergraduate

Since the first major wave of democratization in the 1960s and 70s, the world has seen many transitions to democratic governance on all continents. Following the end of the Cold War, the pace of democratic transition increased and the world saw an unprecedented number of democracies around the world. More recently, scholars and policy makers have sounded alarm bells about the state of democracy and democratization globally, noting the recession of democracy on every continent. The rise of populist leaders in Europe and the United States, the rise of authoritarian leaders in Latin America, Asia and Africa, and the increased skepticism about democracy among publics throughout the world have raised significant concern. Likewise, on a global stage, scholars have raised questions about the future of the liberal world order, including the democratic values and principles that underpin this system. Students will examine what democracy is, what its relevance to foreign policy is, whether democracy globally is eroding and in recession, the impact of the current state of global democracy, and whether this matters to the global landscape. Students will look at the structure of democratic systems, threats to the governing system and other factors that cause erosion, and the state of democracy on all continents. We will also explore what methods are used and effective in building, strengthening, and restoring democratic institutions and values. As a final practical projects, students will work with a partner on a client project to analyze and make policy recommendations to address a current practical challenge. The course will have a significant professional skills development component in which students will learn, review, and practice key skills ̧ such as impromptu and prepared oral briefings, and memo writing.