Story perspectives

Barak Warns: Democracy Erodes Amid Global Polarization

2/10/2026

Summary

Story summary

Aharon Barak, former Israeli Supreme Court chief justice, warns democracies erode gradually, especially in Israel lacking a formal constitution.
He notes polarization has become a governing strategy, dividing societies into 'patriots' and 'traitors' in the United States, Brazil, Hungary, and Poland.
Israel's 2026 elections are crucial, as leaders such as U.S. President Donald Trump and Jair Bolsonaro have attacked independent institutions, framing them as threats and undermining media trust.

History

Historical Context

Since 2010, Hungary's Fidesz government, led by Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, has enacted constitutional changes that undermine democratic institutions, prompting criticism from the European Union. By 2020, Hungary's democracy rating had dropped for ten consecutive years, reflecting a troubling trend of populist leaders eroding trust in democratic frameworks, similar to challenges faced by democracies worldwide, including Israel.

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Story summary

Aharon Barak, former Israeli Supreme Court chief justice, warns democracies erode gradually, especially in Israel lacking a formal constitution.
He notes polarization has become a governing strategy, dividing societies into 'patriots' and 'traitors' in the United States, Brazil, Hungary, and Poland.
Israel's 2026 elections are crucial, as leaders such as U.S. President Donald Trump and Jair Bolsonaro have attacked independent institutions, framing them as threats and undermining media trust.

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