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The title "Electoral Democracy in a Changing Global System: An Indian Perspective" encapsulates the dynamic interaction between India’s democratic processes and the evolving global landscape. Electoral democracy, characterized by free and fair elections, political pluralism, and citizen participation, has been a cornerstone of India’s political system since independence in 1947. As the world's largest democracy with over 900 million eligible voters (as per the Election Commission of India, 2022), India exemplifies the complexities and resilience of electoral democracy in a diverse society.
In recent decades, the global system has undergone significant transformations driven by globalization, digitalization, and shifting geopolitical power balances. For instance, the rise of China and the resurgence of Russia have challenged Western dominance, impacting international norms and democratic values. The global spread of digital technology has transformed electoral campaigning, voter engagement, and the dissemination of information, but has also raised concerns about misinformation and electoral interference.
India’s democracy faces unique challenges amidst these global changes. Issues such as rising populism, political polarization, and the influence of foreign actors on electoral processes demand scrutiny. For example, the 2019 Indian general elections saw over 600 million voters participating, reflecting high democratic engagement but also raising concerns about electoral integrity and misinformation.
Furthermore, India’s experience offers insights into how a large, diverse democracy navigates global pressures while maintaining electoral legitimacy. Studying India’s response to global influences provides valuable lessons on safeguarding democratic institutions in an interconnected world. The title emphasizes the importance of understanding these interactions from an Indian viewpoint, analyzing how global shifts influence electoral practices, political stability, and democratic resilience in India.