In 2023, Democracy faced significant and widespread setbacks globally, marked by violence and manipulation during numerous elections, as reported by Freedom House on Thursday.

In its annual report, the US-funded pro-democracy advocacy and research group modified classifications for two countries.

It downgraded Ecuador from “free” to “partly free” and upgraded Thailand from “not free” to “partly free.”

The overall trend indicated a decline in political rights and civil liberties in 52 countries, with only 21 countries experiencing improvements.

This marks the 18th consecutive year of a decline in global freedom, displaying a more pronounced imbalance compared to the previous year, AFP reported.

The report highlighted efforts by incumbents in countries like Cambodia, Turkey, Zimbabwe, Guatemala, and Poland to control electoral competition, hinder political opponents, or prevent them from assuming power.

Ecuador’s downgrade was attributed to election disruption by violent criminal gangs, culminating in the assassination of anti-corruption presidential candidate Fernando Villavicencio after a campaign speech.

Thailand’s upgrade resulted from competitive elections, despite establishment forces preventing young progressive Pita Limjaroenrat, whose Move Forward Party secured the most seats, from becoming the prime minister.

The most significant improvement on Freedom House’s 100-point scale was seen in Fiji, which gained seven points.

Fiji, previously listed as “partly free,” conducted a tense election in December 2022, leading to the ousting of Frank Bainimarama, who had been in power since a bloodless coup in 2006.

Post-election, Fiji has made notable progress, including reducing censorship and amending voter registration laws to enhance women’s participation.

Written by B.C. Begley