The world is heading towards an age of Populism and the crisis of truth. The rise of the Post-truth in the political sphere and the decline of strong leadership has turned the democracies of the world hollow and decay. The rise of the current political scenario can be traced back to the rise of Neoliberalism and Globalisation. After the end of the Cold War, the globe was under the influence of the neo-liberal economic structure. The promises it made included welfare scheme, freedom of opportunity based on merit, and transcontinental lifestyle. However, with the flow of time, people realised that through these neo-liberal policies, only a handful of individuals have amassed a lot of wealth while the majority of the citizens are surviving on mere bread and butter. People also felt that their culture and distinct lifestyle was under threat through the intermixing of the vast array of cultures. Westernisation and Modernisation were seen as an attack on the traditional culture and norms of the society.
This polarisation of power created a counterpart, which is now reflected in the populist governments of the world, from Donald Trump in the U.S. to Nicolás Maduro in Venezuela. These repressive governments are trying to create a sense of fear among the citizens against the world and other minorities within the nation and feed on the collective fear of the majority.
However, some people are resisting this trend. Rosa Leopold, a student of Northeastern University coordinated with the nonprofit organisation in Ecuador and helped to create awareness about the repressive government of President Aoun. Leopold provided help in promoting the culture of Afro-Ecuadorians, who are discriminated against in the country. Many non-governmental organisations and individuals in their capacity are doing a lot to enhance and broaden the scope of democracy. The crisis of truth can be solved only when we start taking endeavour in our capacity. It is us that compose society, not vice versa.
Nafis Haider
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