(Image source from: x.com/DrSJaishankar)
On Friday, S. Jaishankar, the External Affairs Minister, made a subtle critique of Western perspectives on democracy, suggesting they treat it as a trait exclusive to their own culture. During a panel discussion titled "Live to Vote Another Day: Fortifying Democratic Resilience" at the Munich Security Conference, where he shared the stage with Norway’s Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store, U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin, and Warsaw Mayor Rafal Trzaskowski, Mr. Jaishankar expressed a divergence from the common belief that democracy is facing a global crisis, showcasing the strength of India’s democratic practices.
When queried about his views on Western democracy, he conveyed an optimistic outlook, especially within a largely pessimistic context of the discussion. He humorously raised his finger, indicating that it was merely the index finger, which bore the indelible mark of a recent voter. He highlighted that India just held elections in Delhi and had a national election the previous year, where approximately two-thirds of eligible voters participated. He noted that during the last national elections, around 700 million out of an electorate of 900 million cast their votes, all counted within a single day.
Mr. Jaishankar emphasized that since modern voting began, there has been a 20 percent increase in voter participation compared to decades past. He challenged the notion that democracy is struggling globally, asserting that India continues to thrive and actively engage in the electoral process, leading to a positive outlook on the country's democratic trajectory. He remarked that once election results are revealed, there is no contention over them.
Started the #MSC2025 with a panel on ‘Live to Vote Another Day: Fortifying Democratic Resilience’. Joined PM @jonasgahrstore, @ElissaSlotkin and @trzaskowski_.
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) February 14, 2025
Highlighted India as a democracy that delivers. Differed with the prevailing political pessimism. Spoke my mind on… pic.twitter.com/h3GUmeglst
In response to Senator Slotkin's comment about democracy not providing sustenance, he countered by explaining that in India, democracy indeed leads to prosperity. He elaborated that as part of a democratic society, support systems are in place to nourish 800 million individuals, which directly impacts their health and well-being. He urged the audience to understand that various regions experience different realities regarding democracy and noted that it should not be seen as a universal condition.
Mr. Jaishankar acknowledged that while some areas may struggle with democratic processes, those regions must engage in candid discussions to identify the underlying issues. When asked about the aspirations of countries in the Global South regarding democracy, he stated that every major nation possesses its uniqueness. Nevertheless, he expressed hope that democracy would be recognized as a universal aspiration, highlighting that India’s choice of a democratic model after gaining independence stemmed from its fundamentally diverse and consultative society.
He further mentioned that there was a period when Western nations considered democracy as an attribute exclusive to them and actively supported non-democratic movements in the Global South. "This continues to be the case. There are many recent examples where the values you claim to uphold domestically are not reflected in your actions internationally. Thus, I believe that countries in the Global South will assess the achievements, failures, and reactions of various nations," he stated. He added that India has remained committed to the democratic framework despite grappling with numerous challenges, even as a lower-income nation. "In our region, we are essentially the sole example of this dedication. Therefore, I believe the West should take note of this situation, as if you truly wish for democracy to succeed in the long run, it is crucial for Western nations to acknowledge and learn from successful democratic practices that exist beyond their own borders," he remarked.
In conversation with PM @jonasgahrstore, @ElissaSlotkin and @trzaskowski_ on the topic ‘Live to Vote Another Day: Fortifying Democratic Resilience’ at #MSC2025.
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) February 14, 2025
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