S. Jaishankar Defends Indian Democracy at Munich Security Conference

During the Munich Security Conference, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar defended India’s democratic practices, disputing the notion that democracy is globally under threat. He highlighted the high voter turnout in India and argued that democracy effectively addresses essential needs, differentiating experiences in the Global South from pessimistic views predominantly held in the West.

At the Munich Security Conference, Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar expressed his disagreement with the notion that democracy is faltering globally. During a discussion focusing on democratic resilience, he emphasized India’s electoral participation, noting that about two-thirds of eligible voters cast ballots in recent elections. Jaishankar symbolically indicated his optimism about democracy through a voting mark on his finger and reminded the audience of India’s robust democratic system.

Jaishankar highlighted the increasing voter turnout in India, stating that 20 percent more individuals participate in elections compared to previous decades. He firmly contested the idea that democracy is universally in jeopardy, asserting that India is thriving and demonstrating optimism in its democratic processes. He underscored the significance of democratic practices, stating, “Nobody disputes the result after it is announced.”

In response to Senator Elissa Slotkin’s assertion that democracy does not provide essential needs, Jaishankar countered by pointing out that India’s democratic government successfully delivers nutritional support to approximately 800 million citizens. He underscored that the democratic model has helped improve food accessibility and health in his region. He urged that discussions surrounding global democracy should acknowledge different contexts and outcomes across various nations.

Regarding the aspirations for democracy in the Global South, Jaishankar acknowledged the unique nature of each large country while highlighting India’s commitment to democratic principles following independence. He framed democracy as a universal aspiration yet noted that many in the Global South have observed both the successes and failures of democratic systems.

Jaishankar also remarked on the West’s historical portrayal of democracy as a primarily Western trait, suggesting that this perception has been detrimental. He insisted that, despite facing numerous challenges, India has remained dedicated to its democratic course and that the West should take note of successful democratic models from outside its borders. He concluded that fostering global democracy requires the West to acknowledge and value effective democratic practices established in other regions.

In conclusion, S. Jaishankar’s remarks at the Munich Security Conference highlighted India’s positive democratic experience amidst global skepticism about democracy. He emphasized the importance of acknowledging diverse democratic practices around the world and urged for a recognition of non-Western models of governance. His comments reflect a broader call for a more inclusive understanding of democracy that transcends regional biases.

Original Source: www.ndtv.com