With almost half of the world’s population — 4 billion people — set to cast ballots in over 50 countries this year, elections will be a major test of democracy. Global politics will probably be shaped by the outcomes for many years to come, as
Thaksin Shinawatra’s daughter is the most popular candidate for prime minister, opinion surveys show ahead of Thailand’s general election on May 7, but electoral rules put in place to help a coup-leader remain in power may prevent an opposition victory.
Politicians from six African nations recently attended the first session of a Chinese Communist Party training school, including members of Tanzania’s ruling party. To increase China’s outreach to African nations, the school was built. However, some argue that the training undermines initiatives to foster democracy in Africa by endorsing Beijing’s one-party system
Independent rights groups claim that democratic institutions have been eroding in various Western countries in recent years, including the United States
A bipartisan U.S.-based watchdog says President Donald Trump is attacking essential American institutions and democratic norms, including a free press, an independent judiciary, safeguards against corruption and the legitimacy of elections.VOA