At the Munich Security Conference 2025, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar offered a robust defense of India’s democratic vitality, challenging prevailing Western narratives of a global democratic recession. Participating in a panel titled “Live to Vote Another Day: Fortifying Democratic Resilience,” Jaishankar underscored India’s electoral robustness and the tangible benefits democracy delivers to its citizens.
India’s Democratic Engagement
Jaishankar began by showcasing the indelible ink on his finger, a mark of recent participation in state elections. He highlighted that approximately two-thirds of India’s 900 million eligible voters exercised their franchise in the last national elections, amounting to about 700 million individuals. Emphasizing the efficiency and credibility of India’s electoral process, he noted that vote counting is completed in a single day, and the results are universally accepted without dispute. This, he argued, reflects the deepening roots of democracy in India, with voter participation increasing by 20% over past decades.
Democracy’s Tangible Benefits
Addressing U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin’s assertion that “democracy doesn’t put food on the table,” Jaishankar countered by illustrating how, in India, democracy directly contributes to citizens’ well-being. He pointed out that India’s democratic framework facilitates nutrition support and food distribution to 800 million people, ensuring their health and sustenance. This, he suggested, exemplifies how democracy can effectively address basic human needs.
A Divergent Perspective on Global Democracy
Contrary to the Western perspective of a global democratic decline, Jaishankar offered an alternative viewpoint. He acknowledged that while certain regions may face challenges, India’s experience demonstrates a thriving and resilient democracy. He urged for honest conversations about the varying performances of democracies worldwide, emphasizing that issues in some areas do not signify a universal trend.
Democracy Beyond the West
Jaishankar also critiqued the traditional Western-centric view of democracy, noting that many nations in the Global South resonate more with India’s democratic journey than with Western models. He highlighted that, despite numerous challenges, India has remained steadfast in its commitment to democracy. This steadfastness, he suggested, offers a relatable and transferable model for other countries striving to strengthen their democratic institutions.
Call for Inclusive Global Governance
In light of the discussions at the conference, which centered on the theme of “Multipolarization,” Jaishankar emphasized the need for inclusive global governance. He argued that as power dynamics shift towards a more multipolar world, it’s crucial to recognize and incorporate diverse democratic experiences. This approach, he proposed, would foster more effective cooperation and address global challenges more comprehensively.
Jaishankar’s remarks at the Munich Security Conference 2025 not only defended India’s democratic resilience but also challenged prevailing narratives about the state of democracy worldwide. By presenting India’s experience as a testament to the strength and adaptability of democratic systems, he called for a more nuanced and inclusive understanding of democracy in the global context.
