Global Scans · Democracy · Weekly Summary

WHAT'S NEXT?: Society is expressing its discontent with current democratic processes that leave the elites struggling to convince their voters of their good intentions and competencies. Read on to see how democracy is offering both great opportunities and risks while this period of volatility shakes out.

• [New] Corruption remains a threat to prosperity, security, and democracy, and the United States is resolute in its commitment to fight corruption. United States Mission to the United Nations
• [New] The humanitarian impact of the Sudan conflict, building democratic institutions, encouraging free and fair elections, and countering the continuing threat from Boko Haram all remain important priorities. United States Mission to the United Nations
• [New] Shareholders seeking greater transparency around the risks associated with Shell's uniquely bullish LNG strategy should vote in favour of resolution 22. ACCR
• [New] As Germany prepares for a potential change in leadership, with Christian Democrat Friedrich Merz expected to form the next coalition government, the future of defence agreements with Turkey remains uncertain. Aerotime
• [New] The ongoing discourse will shape the future of Indian politics, and it is imperative that all voices are heard in a manner that reflects the values of democracy. Trends Newsline
• [New] By prioritizing evidence-based decision-making, promoting critical thinking, and strengthening democratic institutions, Europe can effectively counter the threat of misinformation and protect its citizens from the harmful consequences of manipulated narratives. DISA
• [New] Federal seats with large Muslim populations could see a swing against Labour at the federal election, as happened with centre-left parties in the UK and US last year. ABC News
• [New] Canada's Security and Intelligence Threats to Elections is monitoring the election for disinformation and says it expects increased online political activity following the two closely-watched leaders debates. The Guardian
• [New] As has been the case for the last several years, housing is one of the biggest issues facing Canada and will likely play a role in the upcoming election. RE/MAX Canada
• [New] Nigeria's democratic journey will remain incomplete if the most critical tier of government remains shrouded in secrecy. Premium Times Nigeria
• [New] Copper and gold prices continued their upward trend last week, driven in part by supply disruptions in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Copperbelt Katanga Mining
• [New] Russia will remain sanctioned by a range of Western democracies, including major economies such as the EU, the UK, Canada, Japan, Australia, and Switzerland. Free Russia Foundation THINK TANK -
• [New] The relationship between the Republic of Indonesia and the United States of America in the 21st century represents a crucial nexus of democratic values, strategic interests, and economic potential in the dynamic Indo-region Pacific. Eurasia Review
• [New] The continuous barrage of misinformation and disinformation during the Australian federal election will inevitably sow doubt and erode trust in scientific evidence. DISA
• [New] Facial recognition in public spaces poses a serious threat to fundamental rights, calling it a form of mass surveillance incompatible with democratic values. - JURIST - Commentary - Legal News & Commentary
• [New] Despite early successes in encouraging transparent labour union elections, progress on labour democracy and raising wages in Mexico will not demonstrate substantial results for years. Wilson Center
• [New] SINGAPORE: Four out of five members of the ruling People's Action Party's (PAP) slate in Aljunied Group Representation Constituency (GRC) for the next general election, will be newcomers contesting for the first time. CNA
• [New] Director of National Intelligence, recently warned about vulnerabilities in electronic voting systems in the U.S., suggesting a return to paper ballots. Legacy IAS Academy
• [New] Western Australia is a key focus for both parties and at the last election winning a swag of seats in the west meant Labour could govern in its own right. ABC News
• [New] Economic uncertainty remains a factor due to high interest rates, vehicle affordability concerns, and geopolitical risks such as U.S. tariffs and the upcoming Canadian federal election. LGM Financial Services
• [New] The rapid dissemination of misinformation online poses a significant threat to societies and democracies worldwide, influencing critical issues like vaccine hesitancy, climate change denial, and political elections. DISA

Last updated: 27 April 2025