Democracy, the cherished system of governance by the people, is facing unprecedented challenges in the modern world. The term “populism” has emerged as a pejorative label, used to undermine democratic movements that challenge the status quo.
The belief that experts should govern society, has gained prominence as complex challenges and interconnected issues require specialized knowledge. While expertise is undoubtedly crucial, the rise of technocracy has shifted power away from elected representatives and towards unelected technocrats. These technocrats, often appointed or selected through opaque processes, wield significant influence over policy decisions without being accountable to the electorate.
One of the most significant manifestations of technocracy is the increasing influence of supranational organizations such as the International Monetary Fund (IMF), World Bank, and the European Union (EU). These institutions, while claiming to promote global cooperation and economic stability, often impose policies that bypass democratic processes and infringe upon national sovereignty. The technocratic decision-making within these organizations can lead to a democratic deficit, as citizens find themselves removed from the key choices that shape their lives.
At the same time the term “populism” has become a weapon of choice for discrediting democratic movements that challenge the established order. Populism, defined as a political approach that seeks to appeal to ordinary people’s concerns and interests, has been deliberately framed as a derogatory term to paint such movements as irrational, dangerous, or even authoritarian.
The defamatory connotations associated with populism are problematic as they undermine the essence of democracy itself. Democracy is built on the principle that the power to govern lies with the people, and populist movements often emerge as a response to the perceived disconnection between the political elite and the populace. Dismissing these movements as populist, without engaging with the legitimate grievances they represent, further erodes public trust in democratic institutions.
Technocrats argue that democracy is inefficient and prone to making irrational decisions due to the influence of emotions and short-term thinking. They posit that experts, armed with data-driven analyses and rational thought processes, are better equipped to make informed choices in the best interests of society. However, this argument overlooks the fundamental importance of democratic values such as representation, accountability, and the inclusion of diverse perspectives.
While technocracy may provide efficiency and expertise, it often lacks the essential democratic safeguards necessary for a healthy society. The absence of robust checks and balances, public accountability, and mechanisms for citizen participation can result in decisions that benefit a select few at the expense of broader societal needs. Moreover, the concentration of power in the hands of unelected technocrats can breed elitism, further alienating citizens from the decision-making process.
The ascendancy of technocracy poses several risks to democratic values and individual freedoms. First, it perpetuates a system where power is consolidated among a select few, diminishing the influence of ordinary citizens in shaping their own destiny. The erosion of democratic participation can lead to a sense of disillusionment and political apathy among the populace.
Second, technocracy often prioritizes efficiency and technocratic reasoning over ethical considerations and human values. Decisions driven solely by technocratic ideals can overlook the nuances and ethical complexities that democratic deliberation can bring to the table. This can have profound implications for issues such as civil liberties, social justice, and the protection of marginalized communities.
Third, the increasing influence of technocracy can undermine the democratic principle of government accountability. When decision-making is concentrated in the hands of unelected experts, the mechanisms for holding decision-makers accountable become weak. This lack of transparency and democratic oversight can foster a culture of unaccountability, potentially leading to corruption and abuse of power.
The erosion of democracy and the rise of technocracy represent significant challenges to the ideals of representative governance and citizen participation. Technocracy, while offering expertise and efficiency, can come at the cost of democratic values such as accountability, inclusivity, and transparency. The labelling of democratic movements as populist further exacerbates the divide between the people and the political elite.
EAST AND WEST 