Signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. Painting by John Trumbull. Hung in the Capitol Rotunda, Washington, DC. Image Credit: Alamy
A More Perfect Union.
Our democracy is not a spectator sport. It is a continuous act of citizenship that demands knowledge and engagement. Thomas Jefferson’s words remind us that the system's strength lies not in any single leader or political party, but in you, the well-informed citizen.
America is the Enduring Experiment in Self-Governance.
For nearly 250 years, the United States has operated under the boldest, most challenging political idea in history: that the people can govern a nation. Our system is not exceptional because it is perfect, but because it is built to be constantly questioned, improved, and corrected by its citizens.
We Defend our Democracy.
Every generation is called upon to fight for freedom, not on a battlefield, but in the arena of ideas. American democracy is exceptional because its power ultimately rests not with a king or a party, but with every citizen who takes the time to understand the rules of the game.
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The Three Branches of Our Government
Our Constitution, our Bill of Rights, and the balance between our three branches of government form the framework that enables independent thought and political change.
This foundation is maintained by dividing federal power among three separate branches of government: the Legislative, Executive, and Judicial branches, which ensures a functional system of checks and balances.
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The Bill of Rights: Liberties Guaranteed
The first ten amendments serve as a critical check on federal authority, guaranteeing fundamental rights such as freedom of speech, religion, and due process. They exist specifically to protect the individual citizen and ensure the right to independent thought and political action.
Image Credit: Storyblocks.com
Image Credit: Storyblocks.com
Global Influence and Democratic Ideals
The American system is often referred to as the world's greatest democratic experiment. Our true global influence lies not just in power, but in being a consistent example of democratic ideals, free debate, and the peaceful transfer of power, which inspires democratic movements worldwide.
THE UNITED STATES' FREEOM STATUS
Based on reports from the nonpartisan organization Freedom House, the United States remains a "Free" country, but its democratic standing has significantly eroded over the last decade, leading to an 11-point decline in its score (from 94 to around 83/100). This decline has moved the US out of the cohort of highly rated, long established democracies such as Canada and Germany and into the company of countries like Romania, Croatia, and Panama. This erosion is primarily attributed to deepening political polarization, partisan interference in the electoral process, persistent unequal treatment within the criminal justice system, and the outsized influence of special interests in politics.
DEMOCRACY IS RARE
FULL
DEMOCRACIES
The world's most robust democracies.
25
Countries/Territories
6.6%
World Population
Citizens enjoy the fullest range of political rights and civil liberties, backed by strong institutions, rule of law, and transparent governance.
(EIU 2024)
FLAWED
DEMOCRACIES
Firmly democratic, but with ongoing challenges.
46
Countries/Territories
38.4%
World Population
While meeting basic democratic standards, these countries face political polarization, corruption, or uneven application of the rule of law.
(EIU 2024)
HYBRID
REGIMES
States with limited respect for freedom.
36
Countries/Territories
15.7%
World Population
Elections are not genuinely free or fair with irregularities. Pervasive corruption, weak rule of law, and the harassment of opposition groups and journalists.
(EIU 2024)
AUTHORITARIAN
REGIMES
Severe deprivation of basic rights.
60
Countries/Territories
39.2%
World Population
Political rights and civil liberties are denied, often involving severe suppression of dissent, media censorship, and lack of democratic processes.
(EIU 2024)
freedom for some
45%
Live in a Democracy
The percentage of the world’s population living under either a full or flawed democratic system.
(EIU 2024)
23%
Full Freedom of Speech
The percentage of people who can freely express political opinions, organize protests, and petition the government without fear.
(V-Dem)
8%
Access to Free Press
The percentage of the world’s population living in countries where the media is considered truly free.
(Freedom House)
20%
Reproductive Autonomy
The percentage of women of reproductive age living in countries with broad, secure access to full reproductive freedom and choice.
(UNFPA)