S. Jaishankar Defends India’s Democracy at Munich Security Conference

At the Munich Security Conference 2025, S. Jaishankar defended India’s democracy against claims of global democratic decline. Emphasizing India’s voter turnout and its impact on social welfare, he argued that different regions experience democracy uniquely and criticized Western pessimism. He urged acknowledgment of successful democratic models from the Global South during discussions on international governance.

At the Munich Security Conference 2025, Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar addressed concerns over the integrity of democracy globally, emphasizing India’s democratic strengths. Participating in a panel discussion alongside prominent figures including Norway’s Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre, US Senator Elissa Slotkin, and Warsaw’s Mayor Rafael Trzaskowski, Jaishankar challenged the prevailing narrative that democracy is in decline.

During the panel, Jaishankar expressed optimism in contrast to the more pessimistic tone of the discussion. He highlighted India’s significant voter turnout, noting, “This, the mark you see on my nail, is a mark of a person who has just voted.” He elaborated on the impressive statistics surrounding Indian elections, stating that approximately 700 million out of 900 million eligible voters participated in the national elections, with votes counted within a single day.

Jaishankar acknowledged the skepticism regarding democracy’s effectiveness in various regions, stating, “Actually, in my part of the world, it does.” He illustrated how India’s democratic processes have ensured essential nutrition support for 800 million citizens. He pointed out that conditions vary around the world, urging a nuanced conversation about democracy’s status globally instead of assuming a universal decline.

Defending India’s approach, Jaishankar remarked that despite facing global challenges, the nation remains committed to its democratic values. He criticized the perspective that democracy is fraught with issues internationally, arguing, “For us democracy is actually delivered.” He encouraged Western nations to recognize and learn from the diverse democratic experiences of countries in the Global South.

The Munich Security Conference, running from February 14 to February 16, 2025, is an important platform for discussing foreign and security policy issues. Jaishankar concluded with reflections on how India’s democratic model could resonate more with many emerging nations than conventional Western notions of governance.

S. Jaishankar’s remarks at the Munich Security Conference highlighted a contrasting perspective on the state of global democracy. By underscoring India’s electoral success and social welfare achievements, he advocated for recognition of diverse democratic models. His defense of India’s democratic integrity amidst global skepticism reveals a call for collaboration and understanding among nations regarding their unique political narratives.

Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com