TED Talks Daily A path to security for the world’s deadliest countries | Rachel Kleinfeld
Jan 21, 2020
Rachel Kleinfeld, a democracy advisor and author, discusses the alarming rise of violence in middle-income democracies with high inequality and political polarization. She argues that ordinary voters can drive change in corrupt systems. Kleinfeld unpacks the concept of 'privilege violence' linked to political corruption and showcases successful civic reforms in Bogotá. The conversation pivots to the importance of valuing life and political integrity as pathways to reduce violence, ultimately highlighting the potential for significant societal transformation.
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Violence in Democracies
- War causes only 18% of violent deaths worldwide.
- You are more likely to die violently in a middle-income democracy with inequality and political polarization.
Privilege Violence
- Rachel Kleinfeld identifies "privilege violence" in unequal democracies.
- Elites cling to power using violent groups if they can't win votes.
Venezuela's Colectivos
- In Venezuela, the current regime used gangs (colectivos) to manipulate elections.
- These gangs suppressed votes and intimidated voters in exchange for power.