Could 2026 be the year that democracy fought back? | David Van Reybrouck

Recent electoral defeats of Viktor Orbán, Aleksandar Vučić, and Flávio Bolsonaro suggest a potential resurgence of democracy in 2026. In Hungary, Péter Magyar's civic movement ousted Orbán, while in Serbia, the Student List ended Vučić's long rule amid public outrage over corruption. Lula's unexpected victory in Brazil halted a trend of right-wing populism in Latin America. Despite political differences, these leaders share a commitment to democratic principles, contrasting with post-democrats who undermine democratic institutions for personal gain. While global democratic backsliding remains a concern, recent events offer hope for a revival of democratic values, particularly among younger generations. However, challenges persist, especially in divided societies where elections alone may not suffice for meaningful change.