Democracy Deficit in South Asia

South Asia—home to nearly a quarter of the world’s population—is witnessing a deep and troubling democracy deficit. This Global Eye Intelligence report delivers a rigorous, region-wide assessment of how democratic institutions across South Asia are under strain from authoritarian populism, excessive centralisation of power, weakening civil liberties, and rising militarisation.

Covering key countries including India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, and Sri Lanka, the report analyses how democratic backsliding manifests through erosion of institutional independence, decline in transparency and accountability, suppression of dissent, and the normalisation of emergency governance. It examines landmark policy decisions, electoral stress points, corruption dynamics, and the growing role of nationalism and extremism in reshaping political behaviour.

Crucially, the report does not stop at diagnosis. It maps prospects for democratic recovery, highlighting the role of civil society, decentralisation, electoral reforms, inclusive governance, and regional cooperation. Case insights—such as Nepal’s post-conflict democratic revival—offer guarded optimism amid an otherwise fragile regional outlook.

This report is essential for policymakers, academics, investors, civil society leaders, and geopolitical analysts tracking governance risk in South Asia.

Democratic erosion rarely collapses systems overnight—it hollows them out quietly. Those who understand South Asia’s democracy deficit early will see political risk, social unrest, and governance shocks before they surface publicly. Follow Global Eye Intelligence to stay ahead of political undercurrents shaping Asia’s future.