Review of "How Democracies Die" by Steven Levitsky and Daniel Ziblatt

In "How Democracies Die," Steven Levitsky and Daniel Ziblatt offer a critical examination of the subtle erosion of democratic norms, underscoring how the threats to democracy often come from within. Their insights are particularly resonant in the context of recent protests by young people in both Kenya and Bangladesh, where citizens are challenging the decline of democratic values and the governance structures that fail to meet their aspirations.

The authors argue that the decline of democracy is typically gradual, marked by political leaders prioritizing their interests over democratic principles. This deterioration is vividly illustrated through the recent protests in both Kenya, driven by Generation Z, and Bangladesh, where youth have mobilized against governmental overreach and authoritarian practices.

The Kenyan Context: Gen Z Protests

In Kenya, the aftermath of the 2022 elections sparked a wave of activism among Gen Z, who have taken to the streets to voice their frustrations over economic inequalities and corruption. Unlike previous electoral cycles marked by violence, the post-election period has seen peaceful protests, primarily organized through social media platforms. Young Kenyans are using their collective voice to demand transparency and accountability, illustrating Levitsky and Ziblatt’s argument that democracy thrives when citizens actively engage in its defense.

These protests signify a critical awakening among the youth, who are increasingly disillusioned by a political landscape that often ignores their concerns. The digital activism of Gen Z demonstrates that democracy can be reinvigorated through innovative means, emphasizing that young people are not just passive observers but active participants in shaping their political future.

The Bangladeshi Experience

Similarly, in Bangladesh, recent protests have highlighted the struggle for democratic values amidst growing authoritarianism. Young people have mobilized against the ruling party’s attempts to consolidate power and stifle dissent, reflecting a widespread discontent with a government that seems increasingly unresponsive to the needs of its citizens. The protests have been marked by calls for fair elections, freedom of expression, and an end to governmental repression.

The government’s response to these protests, characterized by censorship and violence against dissenters, illustrates Levitsky and Ziblatt’s thesis that the erosion of democratic norms often involves a gradual acceptance of authoritarian practices. The youth-led movements in Bangladesh embody a strong rejection of this trajectory, as they demand a return to democratic accountability and transparency.

Reflections on Democratic Norms

Levitsky and Ziblatt emphasize that the preservation of democracy is contingent upon a shared commitment to its norms, including respect for the rule of law and the protection of dissenting voices. The protests in both Kenya and Bangladesh highlight the crucial role of young people in defending democratic values. Their determination to challenge the status quo reflects an understanding that democracy is a collective responsibility that requires continuous engagement.

The peaceful nature of the protests in Kenya and the resilience of activists in Bangladesh demonstrate that democratic engagement can manifest through non-violent means. These movements serve as powerful reminders that the health of a democracy depends on the active participation of its citizens, particularly the youth who are often the most affected by political decisions.

Conclusion

"How Democracies Die" provides essential insights into the mechanisms through which democratic norms can erode, with recent protests in Kenya and Bangladesh serving as poignant examples of resistance against such decline. Levitsky and Ziblatt remind us that the future of democracy is not solely determined by electoral processes but by the ongoing commitment of citizens to uphold and advocate for democratic principles. As we witness the courage of young activists in both countries, it becomes increasingly clear that they are the vanguard of democratic renewal. This book serves as both a warning and a call to action, urging us to protect and nurture the democratic values that sustain our societies.