Russian Capitalism in Transition
Ignatius Forbes and Ilya Popov consider the difficulties facing Russia as it journeys towards a fully functioning market-based society.
It was a moment in history that former Russian President Vladimir Putin called “the greatest geopolitical catastrophe of the twentieth century”: the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991. There it was, a socialist, military superpower that in its last years had a non-existent GDP, chronic ethnic tensions, and an ideology that had failed to fulfil the prophecies spun by its creators. [...]
Electing Terrorists?
Gerard McCarthy explores the role of elections in instilling civic virtue in the Middle East.
Islamist groups throughout the Middle East are beginning to embrace democracy and compete in national elections. However, many question their commitment to democracy beyond a tactical means of power, claiming that it will be “one man, one vote, one time”. One major justification for authoritarian regimes in the Middle East has been the danger of Muslim citizens electing radical Islamist parties to government. Given this prospect, Western powers have often supported autocrats over theocrats. [...]
Democracy Hypocrisy
After a week at the International Youth Leadership Conference in Prague, Sarah Whyte explores the fragmentary nature of democracy in the European Union.
This July, five University of Sydney students attended the International Youth Leadership Conference in Prague, Czech Republic, for a week-long immersion in global politics and discussion of the role of international organisations. The experience revealed some deep flaws in international democracy, played out by bodies such as the European Union, which is plagued by coalition loyalty and fragmented political parties. [...]
Developing Democracy: Freedom for All?
Robbie Nakarmi argues that democracy is crucial to the formation of legitimate and internationally engaged governments.
Democratisation takes time, and occasional setbacks are inevitable. Close co-operation with the local population and a long-term commitment in the field are vital, while respect for the cultural and historical contexts of partner countries is necessary for constructive co-operation. Notwithstanding these challenges, democracy is an essential precondition to sustainable human development. [...]
