Topic: 2025 – Authoritarianism and Democracy
Country: Australia
Delegate Name: Monica Delgertsogt
There has been a noticeable increase in authoritarianism around the world. The world has fewer democracies than autocracies where leaders are increasingly consolidating power by weakening courts, restricting free speech and the media, limiting civil society, and making elections less fair. These slow changes make it easier for authoritarian governments to gain power without facing immediate opposition. Citizens often do not notice until major democratic rights have already been undermined. Australia believes this global shift undermines human rights and increases political instability. It also creates uncertainty in the international system, making it harder for countries to cooperate peacefully and solve global challenges.
Australia is a liberal democracy meaning it has free and fair elections, strong individual rights, independent courts, and limits on government power. Australians value democracy because it allows citizens to have a voice in government and ensures that leaders are accountable to the people. However, Australia recognizes that many countries are moving toward authoritarianism where strong leaders gain support by ignoring democratic rules and concentrating power in their own hands. This is a serious concern because it threatens freedom, human rights, and peace both within these countries and globally.
In response, Australia supports strong international cooperation to protect and strengthen democracy. This includes encouraging free and fair elections through an independent electoral commission, transparent voting procedure, and international observation. Australia also emphasizes the importance of supporting civil society including journalists, non governmental organisations, youth groups and other organizations that help. In addition, it is important to maintain strong checks and balances. Such as independent courts and transparent governance to prevent the concentration of power and the abuse of authority. Australia believes that early action is crucial to stop authoritarianism before it takes hold and that the United Nations can play an important role in helping new democracies grow and existing democracies remain strong and resilient. By promoting fair elections, protecting civil liberties and supporting strong democratic institutions. Australia is committed to working with other countries to build a safer, fairer and more democratic world for all people.
