Democracy Under Stress: Populism, Constitutionalism, and the Rule of Law

In the current global political arena, liberal democracies face significant strain due to the rise of populist movements, challenges to constitutional integrity, and the gradual erosion of the rule of law. Populism, frequently marked by anti-elitist discourse and direct engagement with "the people," poses a threat to institutional checks and balances, jeopardising the stability of democratic systems. This scholarly investigation examines the processes by which populist leaders challenge constitutional principles, the implications for legal governance, and the strategies that can enhance democratic resilience. Through a comparative analysis of case studies from Europe, Latin America, and Asia, this paper elucidates the dynamic interplay between populist influences and institutional protections, offering valuable insights into preserving democratic vitality in the 21st century.