Rising Inequality, Declining Democracy: Why Wealth Disparities Threaten Democratic Stability
Over the past several decades, economic inequality has risen sharply across the world. Today the top 1% control nearly half of global wealth, while many citizens face stagnant wages, rising living costs, and declining economic security.
At the same time, confidence in democratic institutions is weakening. Around the world, increasing numbers of people are questioning whether democratic systems can respond effectively to their needs, while support for authoritarian leadership has grown in some countries.
This research explores the relationship between wealth inequality and democratic decline, examining how economic disparities can erode trust in politics, reduce political participation, increase polarisation, and influence the media landscape.
Understanding these trends is essential for policymakers, researchers and civil society organisations seeking to strengthen democratic governance in an increasingly unequal world.
This research paper explores the evidence linking economic inequality and democratic decline, and outlines policy options for strengthening democratic participation and public trust.