Eroding trust in democratic institutions
Lack of trust between citizens and democratic institutions stands as one of the biggest challenges and threats to democracy. Building resilient media with high trust is key to fighting this democratic backslide.
Is EU democracy under pressure? Foreign information manipulation emerges as second biggest threat
A recent Eurobarometer survey found that many Europeans see foreign information manipulation, interference and disinformation as the second most serious threat to democracy in the
‘Deeply insecure’: Why Bangladeshi minorities are scared ahead of elections
Religious minorities in Bangladesh, particularly the Hindu community, are experiencing deep anxiety and a sense of insecurity ahead of the national elections scheduled for February
Bosnia Convicts Serb of Glorifying Mladic, Karadzic at Rally
A court in Bosnia and Herzegovina has convicted a Serb opposition activist for glorifying convicted war criminals Ratko Mladić and Radovan Karadžić at a political
Separated by war— and by Schengen
The article reports that an EU security‑focused system is unintentionally trapping Ukrainian refugees and ex‑prisoners, including victims of Russian occupation, by complicating their movement and
80 days to election: Hungary opposition recruits Shell executive, triggering immediate Orbán backlash
EUobserver’s Hungary election briefing reports that the opposition Tisza party recruited a high-profile former Shell executive, prompting immediate counterattacks from Orbán’s camp. It notes a
Africa’s key elections to watch in 2026: What’s at stake
In 2026, Africa faces a high-stakes electoral calendar with key votes in countries like Ethiopia, South Africa, and Uganda that will test the continent’s democratic
Earlier posts:
Iran’s economic crisis, political discontent threaten regime
Iran is facing a severe wave of protests triggered by a deepening economic crisis, marked by record-high inflation and a sharp devaluation of the national currency. While the unrest began with strikes by merchants over living costs, it has rapidly evolved into a significant political challenge with demonstrators calling for an end to the Islamic Republic’s leadership. Analysts suggest that public trust has completely eroded as citizens accuse the government of prioritizing regional proxy funding over domestic welfare while engaging in systemic corruption. In response, authorities have deployed security forces to suppress the crowds with tear gas and plastic bullets.
Date: December 31, 2025. Source: dw.com
Florida congresswoman accused of stealing COVID funds maintains innocence
U.S. Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick said she is innocent after a brief hearing in Miami federal court related to allegations that she conspired to steal $5 million in federal COVID-19 disaster funds connected to her family’s health care company, Trinity Healthcare Services. Her scheduled arraignment was postponed to Jan. 20 at her attorney’s request so she can finalize her legal team, with prosecutors not objecting and the judge approving the delay.
Date: December 29, 2025 Source: apnews.com
Kosovo prime minister wins snap election to end political deadlock
Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti achieved an emphatic victory in a December 2025 snap election, ending a year-long political deadlock that had paralyzed parliament and delayed over €1bn in international funding. His Self-Determination party secured more than 49% of the vote, a result significantly bolstered by strong support from the Kosovan diaspora visiting for the holidays. This strengthened mandate allows Kurti to pursue domestic reforms such as welfare expansion and public sector raises, though he still faces challenges involving tensions with Serbia and the need for international recognition. The victory is viewed as a “political earthquake” that may shift the region toward a model of strong central governance with a weakened opposition for years to come.
Date: December 29, 2025. Source: theguardian.com
Albanian police arrest four after Molotov cocktails thrown at anti-government protest
Albanian police arrested four men after Molotov cocktails were thrown at the Prime Minister’s office during an anti-government protest in Tirana. The demonstration, led by the opposition Democratic Party, left several police officers and a photographer injured. Authorities are also investigating seven other individuals, including a minor and a high-ranking party official. These clashes highlight the ongoing, violent tensions between the opposition and Prime Minister Edi Rama’s government.
Date: December 23, 2025. Source: euronews.com
Best of 2025: Top five defining moments in the European Parliament
In 2025, the European Parliament was defined by a major corruption investigation involving the Chinese tech firm Huawei, which led to lobbyists being barred from parliamentary premises. President Ursula von der Leyen successfully survived three separate no-confidence votes, ultimately strengthening her leadership position amid challenges from both the left and the far-right. The year also saw the center-right EPP break traditional centrist alliances to pass legislation with far-right groups, signaling a significant shift in parliamentary power dynamics. Finally, the Parliament adopted a harder line on migration by expanding the “safe third country” concept to facilitate faster asylum rejections and deportations.
Date: December 25, 2025. Source: euronews.com
Ukraine anti-corruption agency blocked during probe into MPs bribery scheme
Ukraine’s National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) attempted to raid the country’s parliament as part of a major investigation into a new bribery and graft scheme. During the operation, a tense standoff occurred after parliamentary guards initially blocked anti-corruption agents from entering the building.
Date: December 27, 2025. Source: france24.com
France’s postal service disrupted by suspected cyberattack
A suspected cyberattack has caused significant disruptions to France’s postal service, La Poste, impacting its digital infrastructure and mail tracking systems. The incident, which began just before the busy holiday season, forced the company to take several servers offline as a precautionary measure to contain the breach. While physical mail delivery continues, customers have faced major difficulties accessing online services and real-time package updates.
Date: December 22, 2025. Source: lemonde.fr
‘I’m not giving up’: Belgian PM sticks to conditions on Russian assets ahead of EU summit
Belgian PM Bart De Wever is blocking an EU plan to use frozen Russian assets for Ukraine, citing major legal and financial risks to Euroclear. He is demanding unlimited guarantees from EU members to cover potential lawsuits or retaliation from Moscow. De Wever warns that spending the assets now could violate international law and waste a vital bargaining chip for future peace talks. While the EU seeks “solidarity” in risk-sharing, Belgium remains firm on protecting its financial security.
Date: December 18, 2025. Source: euobserver.com
Russian assets: Europe faces up to its responsibilities
The EU is reaching a turning point by moving to utilize frozen Russian assets to ensure long-term, autonomous financial support for Ukraine. This shift aims to safeguard aid against potential changes in U.S. foreign policy while holding Moscow accountable for war damages. However, internal friction remains as Belgium demands strict legal guarantees to protect its financial sector from Russian retaliation. The plan represents a critical test of European solidarity and its commitment to a long-term strategy against Russian aggression.
Date: December 18, 2025. Source: lemonde.fr
Top EU court rules Polish Constitutional Tribunal not independent due to political appointments
The European Court of Justice ruled that Poland’s Constitutional Tribunal is not an independent or impartial body due to irregular political appointments. The court found that the inclusion of “doubler” judges violated EU law and undermined the tribunal’s judicial legitimacy. This landmark decision sets a firm precedent for the rule of law standards that all member states must uphold. The ruling is expected to assist the current Polish government in its efforts to reform the judiciary and restore legal alignment with the EU.
Date: December 18, 2025. Source: euronews.com
French police raid home of Culture Minister Rachida Dati in corruption probe
French police raided the home of Culture Minister Rachida Dati on December 18 as part of an ongoing corruption investigation involving her past consultancy work for the Renault-Nissan alliance. The probe focuses on whether the €900,000 she received between 2010 and 2012 constituted “hidden lobbying” during her time as a Member of the European Parliament. Dati has consistently denied any wrongdoing, maintaining that the payments were for legitimate legal services. This high-profile search adds significant political pressure to the current government as it navigates multiple legal challenges involving high-ranking officials.
Date: December 18, 2025. Source: lemonde.fr
Somalia’s 2026 election risks a legitimacy crisis
Somalia faces a legitimacy crisis as the government pushes for universal suffrage in 2026 despite severe security and political divisions. Critics warn that pursuing this without consensus risks a power grab and state fragmentation. Opposition leaders have already rejected the plan, threatening to form parallel authorities. Experts urge the international community to mediate a return to a realistic, indirect election model to prevent a total collapse.
Date: December 19, 2025. Source: aljazeera.com
Defending democracy starts by protecting Europe’s mayors and councillors
The Council of European Municipalities and Regions has launched an observatory to track rising violence and harassment against local politicians. A study revealed that nearly half of local governments face significant harm from misinformation and targeted threats. These attacks, often directed at women and minorities, are discouraging civic participation and undermining local democracy. The initiative aims to provide the EU with data to better protect mayors and councillors.
Date: Desember 19, 2025. Source: euobserver.com
Experts push back on UK’s ‘superflu’ narrative as doctors set to strike
Health experts are pushing back against sensationalist “superflu” headlines in the UK, clarifying that current influenza levels are typical for the winter season. While the media has raised alarms about a potential “twindemic” of flu and COVID-19, doctors emphasize that the strains circulating are not unusually severe. However, the NHS remains under significant pressure due to a massive backlog of patients and planned industrial action by junior doctors. Experts argue that the real crisis stems from chronic underfunding and staffing shortages rather than a particularly dangerous new virus.
Date: December 15, 2025. Source: politico.eu
Benin’s real coup already happened under President Talon
This article analyzes how Benin, once a model of democracy in Africa, has seen its democratic institutions systematically dismantled under President Patrice Talon. Through judicial capture and electoral manipulation, the government has hollowed out the political system, leading to a decline in public faith in elections. Consequently, citizens are increasingly placing their confidence in the military rather than in failing democratic governance.
Date: December 9, 2025. Source: aljazeera.com
Bloomberg expands his support of mayors globally to help save democracy
Michael Bloomberg is expanding his support for global municipal leadership through a $50 million initiative designed to help mayors tackle shared urban challenges. The program aims to improve governance in areas like transportation and public trust, positioning local governments as essential bulwarks for democracy amid rising national polarization. By fostering collaboration between leaders from 17 countries, the effort seeks to accelerate impactful solutions and rebuild civic confidence. Parallel initiatives, such as Elevate Cities in Miami, are also working to strengthen community bonds and transparency through local nonprofit grants and civic engagement.
Date: December 8, 2025. Source: apnews.com
Inquiry to be held into north-east England NHS trust after patient deaths
Following a series of tragic patient deaths and reports of a “cultural malaise,” Health Secretary Wes Streeting announced a statutory inquiry into an NHS mental health trust. The inquiry aims to address long-standing safety failures and the perceived “institutional denial” that has characterized the trust’s response to past incidents.
Date: December 11, 2025. Source: theguardian.com
Bulgarian government resigns after mass anti-corruption protests
The Bulgarian government has resigned following widespread anti-corruption protests, highlighting severe political instability in the country. Analysts point to critically low levels of trust in national institutions and political leaders as a primary driver of the unrest. The crisis is further exacerbated by economic concerns as the nation prepares to adopt the euro.
Date: December 11, 2025. Source: theguardian.com
Puerto Rico governor signs bill that critics say will restrict access to public information
Puerto Rico’s governor signed a new law that restricts access to public information, a move critics argue will increase government opacity. Opponents of the bill stated that the lack of transparency is a key factor contributing to the ongoing erosion of public trust in government institutions. The legislation limits what documents can be requested and extends the time officials have to respond.
Date: December 14, 2025. Source: apnews.com
Georgia: Repressive Laws Effectively Criminalize Peaceful Protests
Human Rights Watch reports that the Georgian government has adopted a series of repressive laws that, combined with abusive policing, effectively criminalize peaceful protests and suppress dissent. These legislative changes impose massive fines—up to ten times higher and equivalent to criminal penalties—while vastly expanding police powers, extending detentions, and classifying routine protest activity as a felony punishable by years in prison.
Date: December 4, 2025. Source: hrw.org
Georgia: Government’s alleged use of toxic chemicals against protestors calls for international investigation and complete embargo on all policing equipment
Following a BBC documentary aired December 1, 2025, presenting evidence that Georgian authorities used bromobenzyl cyanide (a World War I-era chemical weapon) against protesters in 2024, international human rights organizations called for investigations and embargoes. Georgian authorities responded by targeting experts, witnesses, and journalists who participated in the documentary, summoning them for questioning on suspicion of “abuse of official powers” and “assisting a foreign organization in hostile activity.” Amnesty International condemned this response as a “Kafkaesque combination” of fear-mongering and denial that threatens academic freedom and democratic accountability.
Date: December 5, 2025 Source : amnesty.org
Greek police fire tear gas at protesting farmers threatening to blockade airport
Greek farmers have escalated nationwide protests, using thousands of tractors to block major highways, border crossings, and even clashing with riot police while attempting to blockade the Thessaloniki airport. The farmers are primarily protesting severe delays in the payment of their European Union-backed agricultural subsidies, which are crucial for their livelihoods. These delays stem from an ongoing government review and investigation into a massive corruption scandal involving widespread fraudulent claims for the EU funds. Protesters argue that this amounts to collective punishment, leaving honest agricultural workers without necessary income to pay debts and purchase supplies for the upcoming planting season.
Date: December 5, 2025 Source: apnews.com
Macron reportedly warned Zelenskyy US may ‘betray Ukraine on territory’
French President Emmanuel Macron reportedly warned Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy that the US might “betray Ukraine on territory” during ongoing peace negotiations. The German magazine Der Spiegel quoted a leaked summary from a call among European leaders, who voiced fundamental doubts about Washington’s approach. Other leaders, like German Chancellor Merz, echoed these concerns and urged Zelenskyy to be “very careful.” This alarm came as US envoys, without European input, were conducting talks in both the US and Moscow regarding a proposed peace plan.
Date: December 4, 2025 Source: theguardian.com
German MPs rubberstamp military service plan amid school pupil protests
German MPs approved a new military service plan that requires the obligatory screening of all 18-year-old men to gauge their suitability for the armed forces. The measure was passed despite widespread “school strike” protests by thousands of pupils across the country demonstrating against the plan and broader rearmament efforts. While the new model is not full conscription, the Defence Minister warned that parliament would be compelled to consider reintroducing compulsory service if the voluntary model fails to attract enough recruits. Critics opposed the new law, arguing the mandatory screening makes the service non-voluntary and that young people should not have to risk their lives.
Date: December 5, 2025 Source: theguardian.com
Is the Democratic party embracing Bernie Sanders-style politics?
The piece explores the increasing turn toward a populist, anti-establishment economic platform within the Democratic Party. This ideological shift is driven by deep-seated economic rage and a widely shared belief that the ultra-wealthy have “hijacked” the current political system. Even centrist figures are now adopting populist rhetoric, indicating that voters have lost faith in the establishment’s ability to manage the economy fairly. This embrace of “economic rage” demonstrates how widespread distrust in institutional fairness is forcing major political realignments.
Date: November 25, 2025. Source: theguardian.com
Georgia marks a year of protests since EU talks stalled and crackdown intensified
On November 28, 2025, thousands of demonstrators gathered in Tbilisi to mark the one-year anniversary of the government’s decision to suspend EU accession talks. The ongoing protests highlight the deep rift between the ruling Georgian Dream party and the pro-European public, with the government responding via intensified crackdowns and repressive laws. This persistent crisis underscores the erosion of democratic norms and the public’s loss of trust in the state’s geopolitical direction.
Date: November 28, 2025. Source: apnews.com
Fixing a Politicized Judicial System Isn’t Easy, as Poland Is Finding Out
Poland’s current government, led by Donald Tusk, is struggling to reverse the politicization of the country’s justice system implemented by its populist predecessors. Experts warn that deep political polarization makes protecting the rule of law extremely difficult, as voters accept any action taken by their supported party, even the capture of courts. Efforts to undo previous judicial changes have been blocked by PiS-aligned presidents, leading to continued legal chaos and public gridlock. This struggle highlights the vulnerability of constitutional orders to leaders who openly ignore the rule of law, requiring strengthened legal safeguards. Ultimately, preserving democracy depends on both institutional strength and electing officials who respect the democratic rules.
November 21, 2025. apnews.com
Democracy Digest: Is Former Polish Justice Minister Headed Into Budapest Exile?
Poland’s former justice minister Zbigniew Ziobro faces 26 criminal charges, including misuse of funds and illegal surveillance using Pegasus spyware. Allegations include running a criminal group within the ministry and diverting millions meant for victim support to intelligence operations. Ziobro skipped parliamentary hearings and was seen meeting Viktor Orbán, fueling speculation he may seek asylum in Hungary. This case underscores deep-rooted corruption and democratic backsliding in Poland, where rule of law has been under strain for years. Meanwhile, Hungary tightens media control, and far-right forces gain ground in the Czech Republic, signaling a broader regional trend. Experts warn these developments erode trust in democratic institutions and weaken EU cohesion.
Source: Balkan Insight
Date: November 7, 2025
What happens after Europe’s NGOs are dismantled?
The article warns of the consequences of systematically weakening NGOs across Europe. These organizations have been vital in ensuring clean air, safe products, and climate protection, but now face defunding and delegitimization. Without civil society’s watchdog role, democracy risks becoming a “spectator sport,” where power operates unchecked between elections. The dismantling trend is already visible, with health NGOs losing EU funding and shutting down. Experts argue that accountability fades when civic space shrinks, turning participation into a hollow concept. The conclusion is stark: democracy’s heartbeat depends on a strong civil society, and current trends are dangerously undermining it.
Source: EUobserver
Date: November 4, 2025
Ukrainian justice and energy ministers resign over corruption scandal
Ukraine’s justice and energy ministers resigned amid a $100 million corruption scandal involving the state nuclear power company. Prosecutors allege kickbacks and personal benefits linked to energy sector contracts, even as the country struggles with Russian attacks on infrastructure. President Zelensky demanded the resignations, calling corruption “unacceptable” during wartime. The scandal threatens Ukraine’s credibility as it seeks EU integration and continued Western support. Anti-corruption efforts remain a key condition for financial aid and accession talks. Analysts warn that failure to address systemic corruption could undermine democratic reforms and public trust.
Source: France24
Date: November 12, 2025
EU solidarity in action means using Russia’s frozen assets to defend Ukraine
The article argues that the EU should use Russia’s frozen assets to finance Ukraine’s defense and democratic reforms. A proposed “Reparations Loan” of €140 billion could strengthen Ukraine’s resilience and safeguard European security. However, experts caution that wartime centralization of power in Ukraine threatens checks and balances and political pluralism. EU membership is seen as the best framework to preserve the rule of law, but accession is stalled by political vetoes. Without decisive action, Europe risks losing momentum in supporting Ukraine’s democratic transformation. The message is clear: solidarity must translate into tangible resources, not just rhetoric.
Source: EUobserver
Date: November 13, 2025
Kurti Rivals Dismiss Last-Minute Bid to Form Kosovo Govt
Kosovo is in political turmoil after Albin Kurti attempted to retain power by proposing a new government without himself as prime minister. Opposition parties rejected the plan and are pushing for new elections, which could result in two votes within a short period. This instability erodes public trust in institutions and raises doubts about Kosovo’s ability to deliver on EU integration and reforms. The crisis highlights how personality-driven power struggles can paralyze governance and weaken democratic legitimacy. Observers warn that prolonged uncertainty could fuel populism and undermine the rule of law. The EU is closely monitoring developments, given Kosovo’s strategic role in regional stability.
Source: Balkan Insight
Date: November 4, 2025
TikTokcracy: When Algorithms Manufacture Support and Decide Elections
En ny studie avslører hvordan algoritmer og falske kontoer på TikTok manipulerte presidentvalget i Romania i 2024, og fenomenet sprer seg til Bulgaria og Kosovo. Demokrati blir «hacket av oppmerksomhet», der popularitet skapes kunstig gjennom betalte influensere og automatiserte nettverk. Dette undergraver en grunnleggende demokratisk forutsetning: at borgere kan ta informerte valg. Plattformens arkitektur og engasjementslogikk har blitt et politisk våpen uten ansvarlighet. Eksperter advarer om at tradisjonelle overvåkingsmekanismer og transparensverktøy ikke fanger opp denne typen manipulasjon. Konklusjonen: Europa står overfor en ny konstitusjonell utfordring der sosiale medier kan avgjøre valg uten demokratisk legitimitet.
Kilde: Balkan Insight
Dato: 18.11.2025
The EU’s so-called Civil Society Strategy: a band-aid on a gaping wound
Kilde: EUobserver
Dato: 19.11.2025
Oppsummering:
EU har lansert en ny strategi for sivilsamfunn som skal beskytte deltakelse og finansiering av NGO-er, men kritikken er hard: strategien fremstår som symbolpolitikk. Kommisjonen har samtidig ignorert egne retningslinjer for offentlig konsultasjon og innført hastige prosesser som favoriserer industriinteresser fremfor sivilsamfunn. Dette svekker demokratisk lovgivning og undergraver tilliten til EU-institusjoner. Ombudsmannen har åpnet en granskning av Kommisjonens praksis. Eksperter advarer om at når regler for åpenhet og deltakelse svekkes, kollapser tilliten og skaper rom for straffefrihet. Demokratiets helse krever forutsigbare regler og reell inkludering, ikke kosmetiske tiltak.
Dutch election vote count shows nail-biting tie between Wilders’ far right and centrists
The Netherlands faces an unprecedentedly tight election between Geert Wilders’ far-right party and the centrist D66. The results underscore deep polarization in European politics, with anti-immigration rhetoric challenging liberal democratic norms. Analysts view this election as a litmus test for whether populism has peaked or continues to rise across Europe. The deadlock could lead to protracted coalition talks and political instability. Experts warn that such fragmented outcomes erode trust in traditional parties and increase the risk of democratic dysfunction. The EU is watching closely, as the Netherlands plays a pivotal role in the Union’s political balance.
Source: France24
Date: October 29, 2025