External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar defended the notion of democracy during the Munich Security Conference. He expressed optimism regarding India’s democratic success, citing high voter turnout and the direct effects of democracy on welfare. Jaishankar criticized Western perceptions of democracy, emphasizing the need for a broader recognition of successful democratic models outside the West.
At the Munich Security Conference, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar discussed the perception of democracy, asserting that it is not a Western construct. During the panel titled “Live to Vote Another Day: Fortifying Democratic Resilience,” which featured prominent figures like Norway’s Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre and U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin, Mr. Jaishankar expressed optimism regarding global democracy, particularly highlighting India’s robust electoral practices.
Mr. Jaishankar shared his perspective on Western views of democracy, stating, “I think I appeared to be an optimist in what is relatively a pessimistic panel if not room.” He emphasized his confidence by showcasing his indelible ink mark from voting, signifying India’s recent elections, where approximately 700 million voters participated in the national election.
He challenged the notion that democracy is globally troubled, pointing out a significant increase in voter turnout in India over the decades. He stated, “the first message is that somehow democracy is in trouble globally, worldwide, I am sorry, I have to differ with it.” Furthermore, he reinforced the sentiment that India’s democratic process is functioning well.
Responding to Senator Slotkin’s remark about democracy not providing sustenance, he countered, “Actually, in my part of the world, it does because we are a democratic society.” He highlighted that India’s government provides nutritional support to 800 million people, illustrating that the democratic system contributes directly to citizens’ welfare.
Mr. Jaishankar articulated that while different regions face varying challenges concerning democracy, it should not be viewed as a universal crisis. He remarked, “There are parts where it is working well, maybe there are parts where it’s not,” advocating for honest discussions regarding the discrepancies in democratic implementations worldwide.
He acknowledged that while democracy is perceived as a universal aspiration, the Global South has unique circumstances influencing its pursuit. He reiterated India’s commitment to democracy, stating, “India chose a democratic model after independence and it chose a democratic model because we had fundamentally a consultative pluralistic society.”
Additionally, he criticized the West for viewing democracy as a Western trait while simultaneously supporting non-democratic regimes in the Global South. He urged that for democracy to thrive, Western nations should recognize and learn from successful democratic models outside their borders, especially from India, which has maintained its democratic path despite economic challenges.
In summary, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar defended the strength of democracy, particularly within India, during discussions at the Munich Security Conference. He rejected the pessimistic view of global democracy, emphasizing India’s electoral successes and the tangible benefits of its democratic system. Jaishankar urged a reconsideration of perspectives on democracy, particularly from the West, asserting the importance of acknowledging diverse democratic experiences.
Original Source: www.ndtv.com
