New Books Network Democracy and Its Inter-Connections
Jan 22, 2026
Laura Chinchilla, the first woman president of Costa Rica and a political scientist, shares her insights on the pressing issue of global democratic backsliding. She discusses how leaders exploit public dissatisfaction to erode democratic norms and emphasizes the vital role of civic engagement and judicial independence as defenses against this trend. Chinchilla passionately advocates for youth activism, urging young people to participate in their democracies and remain informed. She also underscores the importance of education in fostering democratic values and expresses hope in the commitment of younger generations to civic causes.
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Family Sparked A Career In Public Service
- Laura Chinchilla credits her father's public-service example for steering her to politics and public integrity.
- He worked combating corruption and taught her the importance of efficient, ethical use of public resources.
Overlapping Crises Accelerate Democratic Backsliding
- Chinchilla argues current democratic deterioration is distinct for its overlapping crises and widespread global backsliding.
- She notes new leaders are often focused on dismantling democratic pillars rather than solving problems.
Media Spotlighted Style Over Substance
- Chinchilla recalls media focus on her dress, makeup, and hair rather than policy during her presidency.
- She argues such coverage weakens women's leadership by spotlighting trivialities over substance.