More than half the world votes in 2024. That is approximately 4.2 billion citizens in 65 countries.
Eight of the world’s 10 most populous nations (Bangladesh, Brazil, India, United States, Indonesia, Pakistan, Russia, Mexico) are voting.
While elections are no guarantee of democracy, it is true that democracy does not exist without elections. There is a saying in North Africa; ‘the multitude is stronger than the king.’ But there are more threats to the integrity of elections these days. These range from hate speech against migrants and minorities, to internet shutdowns and disinformation campaigns. All of them aim to manipulate public opinion. Respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms is questionable these days.
We have to wonder if the idea that voters can make or break a future leader’s plans still hold? Meanwhile, more politicians use the power of the media to blur the lines between what is good for the people, and what will bring them the most gains. More than ever voters must to learn to read between the lines to cast the right vote.
The right to vote and be elected are contained in many human rights. These include the right to equality and non-discrimination, the right to freedom of opinion and expression, the right to freedom of association and peaceful assembly, and the right to freedom of movement.
Elections give us the opportunity to exercise our right to participate in public affairs. This right is part of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.
But elections can also exacerbate existing tensions in societies, especially at times of transformation and crises. Climate change, rising inequalities and armed conflict are some of those crises that raise the risk of human rights violations.
More than half the world votes in 2024. Voters will have a chance to change the future, if they want to, and either way, the world will be a different place at the end than it was at the start of the year. Vote if you want things to change.