Human Rights Watch (HRW) recently released a report detailing the global decline of liberal democracies, highlighting that the weakening is so severe that it resembles the situation of 1985. While this revelation may not come as a surprise to those who have long studied democratic erosion, the report omits a crucial factor that is essential to understanding the unprecedented crisis of representation we face today. One critical area that deserves attention is the social frustration that has permeated political systems across the globe for decades.

This ongoing social frustration is directly impacting democracies, manifesting through the inability of liberal democracy to address a multitude of demands and needs from the public. Over time, the constant lack of tangible responses and solutions has led people to feel disillusioned with the democratic process. HRW's findings suggest that this erosion of trust and effectiveness threatens to deepen social divides and further undermine the foundations of democratic governance. Without a clear acknowledgement of this frustration, understanding the full scope of democratic decline becomes challenging.

In light of these findings, it is imperative for policymakers and citizens alike to confront these critical issues head-on. Addressing the root causes of social dissatisfaction, engaging citizens in meaningful dialogue, and revitalizing democratic institutions will be essential in reversing the current trend of democratic degradation. As liberal democracies grapple with this existential crisis, the role of public engagement and systemic reform cannot be overstated if we are to nurture the resilience of democracy for future generations.