LOW VOTER TURNOUT: A SYMPTOM OF DEMOCRATIC DISCONTENT OR A DEEPER SYSTEMIC FAILURE?

Abstract

The journey toward universal and equal suffrage, achieved primarily in the
second half of the XX century, was a monumental step in shaping modern
democratic societies. It marked the moment when voting became a right for all, not
just a privilege for a few. Yet, as this right became universal in democratic societies,
an unexpected trend began to unfold. Democracies worldwide have started to
experience a troubling and persistent decline in voter turnout. Global electoral
participation, which stood at 78.85% in 1946, has now diminished to 61.37%. The
situation is even more alarming in Europe, where turnout has dropped from 88% in
1946 to an average of 61% in 2024. This trend is deeply concerning, taking into
consideration that democracy cannot function properly without citizens’
involvement. Without a doubt, low turnout poses a danger to democracy as it
undermines legitimacy of the political institutions, diminishes the
representativeness and accountability of political leaders and reflects growing civic
apathy and dissatisfaction with the political process. Furthermore, since political
systems often respond more to those who vote, low turnout allows certain groups
to wield disproportionate influence over elections and policy, often at the expense
of the broader public interest. Such a state is also a signal of inequality in political
participation, further marginalizing already disadvantaged groups. Therefore, this
paper seeks to examine the underlying causes of declining voter turnout, as well as
propose strategies and measures to increase voter turnout in democratic societies.