Repression meets resistance

The BTI 2026 findings point to a continued global erosion of democratic standards and market economy principles. Autocratic regimes make up a clear majority of states under review, while the rule of law, political rights and fair competitive conditions continue to weaken. At the same time, a broad-based economic recovery following the pandemic and inflation surge has yet to take hold. Mounting structural and environmental pressures are increasing the need for decisive action – yet many governments are responding with less consensus-driven and less cooperative approaches to governance.