The Intelligence from The Economist The Intelligence: 2024 is a big year for democracy
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Jan 1, 2024 
Ed Carr, Deputy Editor at The Economist, shares insightful perspectives on a monumental year for global democracy with over 70 countries heading to the polls. The conversation highlights the upcoming presidential election in Mexico, focusing on candidates Claudia Sheinbaum and Xochitl Galvez, and examines President López Obrador's lasting impact. Additionally, the discussion touches on the global electoral landscape, emphasizing challenges related to fairness and democratic integrity amidst rising autocratic trends. Ambient music is also explored as a productivity booster, showcasing its therapeutic effects.
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2024 Elections: A Mixed Bag
- A record 4 billion people will vote in 2024 across 76 countries, marking a historical democratic achievement.
- However, only 43 of the 71 elections are expected to be truly free and fair according to the Economist Intelligence Unit.
Largest Democracies' Elections
- Of the top 10 most populous countries, eight will hold elections in 2024, but four are expected to be neither free nor fair.
- These include Russia, Bangladesh, Mexico, and Pakistan, categorized as flawed democracies alongside the United States.
Mexico's Historic Election
- Mexico's 2024 election will be historic, featuring a record number of voters and political positions, with two female presidential candidates.
- Despite this, the election will be heavily influenced by the current president, Andrés Manuel López Obrador (AMLO).