Biden,s Defense of Global Democracies Is Tested by Political Turmoil
As President Biden’s defense of global democracies was put to the test during a virtual summit on Wednesday, the political turmoil in many countries around the world served as a reminder of the fragility of democratic systems.
At the two-day summit, Biden sought to rally the world’s democracies in the face of numerous challenges around the globe. In recent years, governments in countries like Myanmar, Thailand, and the United Arab Emirates have cracked down on peaceful protesters, while authoritarian leaders in Russia, China, and Venezuela have consolidated power.
The United States has long been a beacon of hope for those seeking democracy and freedom. But Biden’s administration faces a difficult task in trying to rally support for democratic ideals in the face of these growing authoritarian trends.
At the summit, Biden outlined his vision of a more equitable world order that would promote “the universal values of the rule of law, human rights, and respect for human dignity.” He also called for an end to autocratic rule, saying that “no country should be allowed to violate the rights of its people without consequence.”
Biden’s efforts were met with mixed reactions from world leaders. Some praised the president for his commitment to promoting democratic values, while others criticized him for not doing enough to protect democracy in countries like Myanmar and Venezuela.
The summit also highlighted a stark divide between the United States and other countries on issues like climate change and human rights. While the United States has taken a strong stance on protecting the environment and promoting human rights, other countries have yet to follow suit.
The Biden administration’s commitment to defending global democracies is likely to face further tests in the coming months, as political turmoil continues to roil many countries around the world. It remains to be seen whether Biden’s defense of these values can prove successful in the long term.
