Lord Sumption: Is liberal democracy in big trouble?
Feb 28, 2025
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Stephen Sackur talks with Lord Sumption, a former senior judge and author, about the precarious state of liberal democracy. They explore the rise of authoritarianism and the backlash against political elites. There’s a deep dive into the UK's constitutional crisis during Brexit and the implications for parliamentary democracy. Sumption also addresses judicial independence in Hong Kong amidst Chinese influence. The conversation wraps up with reflections on the fragility of democracy and the significance of international law in safeguarding rights.
Lord Sumption warns that the rise of populist leaders undermines democratic norms by challenging legal constraints and judicial authority.
Discontent among younger generations, favoring strongman governance, reveals the fragility of democracy amidst unmet political expectations and polarized values.
Deep dives
The Threat of Authoritarianism in Democracy
The examination of contemporary democracy reveals a concerning trend towards authoritarianism, especially with leaders like Donald Trump challenging traditional democratic constraints. Lord Sumption emphasizes that the danger lies in the president's disregard for legal limitations, making a comparison between democratic leadership and absolute monarchy. The evolving perception among younger generations, favoring strongman governance over representative democracy, may stem from unmet expectations generated by political promises that often exceed practical capabilities. This discontent is exacerbated by populist rhetoric that positions these leaders as champions of the people against an elite class, thereby dismantling vital checks and balances necessary for democracy's survival.
Erosion of Checks and Balances
A significant concern within the political landscape is the erosion of the relationship between the executive and the judiciary, which is crucial to maintaining constitutional democracy. The assertion that a leader acting for the nation transcends legal boundaries undermines the authority of the courts, posing risks to democratic norms and institutions. The recent Supreme Court rulings that bolster executive immunity highlight a worrying trend where the judiciary's role is diminished to mere advisory functions, leaving substantial power unchecked. This situation raises fears about a potential normalization of authoritarian practices, especially when judges face pressure to align with executive demands.
Cultural Norms and the Future of Democracy
The foundation of any democracy extends beyond its institutional framework, relying heavily on cultural norms that promote respect for constitutional principles. A polarized political climate, where winning becomes paramount over upholding democratic values, signals a worrying shift that can destabilize the very essence of democratic governance. In the UK, the unwritten constitution also hinges on traditions and precedents, which, although resilient, could similarly be threatened by populist movements that disregard historical conventions. As the historical trend towards autocracy resurfaces, it poses a profound challenge to the perception that liberal democracy is the ultimate form of governance, leaving its future in jeopardy.
Stephen Sackur speaks to the former senior judge, barrister and writer Lord Sumption whose latest book assesses the health of democracy and the rule of law
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