Preparation Staff asked 6 days ago According to the Economist Intelligence Unit's (EIU) Democracy Index 2024, Norway ranks first among 167 countries, maintaining its position as a "full democracy." CloudFront The Democracy Index evaluates countries based on electoral process and pluralism, functioning of government, political participation, political culture, and civil liberties.
In 2024, the global average Democracy Index score declined to an historic low of 5.17, with more than one-third of the world's population living under authoritarian rule. Economist Intelligence Unit Norway's consistent top ranking underscores its robust democratic institutions and practices, distinguishing it from many nations experiencing democratic backsliding.
The EIU's report highlights a global trend of democratic decline, noting that 130 out of 167 countries either registered a decline in their score or made no improvement. This trend emphasizes the importance of understanding the factors that contribute to Norway's sustained democratic excellence.
Norway's success can be attributed to several key factors:
Electoral Process and Pluralism: Norway ensures free and fair elections with high voter participation, reflecting a pluralistic political landscape.
Functioning of Government: The country boasts efficient public services, transparent decision-making, and low levels of corruption.
Political Participation: Citizens actively engage in political processes, supported by a strong civil society and accessible political platforms.
Political Culture: A widespread commitment to democratic values fosters respect for diverse opinions and collaborative governance.
Civil Liberties: Norway upholds fundamental rights, including freedom of speech, assembly, and religion, ensuring a protected civil society.
These elements create a reinforcing cycle that strengthens Norway's democratic institutions and practices. In contrast, many countries face challenges such as political polarization, weakened institutions, and erosion of civil liberties, contributing to their decline in the Democracy Index.
The EIU's Democracy Index serves as a valuable tool for assessing the health of democracies worldwide, encouraging nations to reflect on their strengths and areas for improvement. Norway's exemplary ranking offers a model for other countries striving to enhance their democratic governance and underscores the importance of vigilance in protecting democratic principles.
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