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From Russia to Rwanda: the ballot box paradox

From Russia to Rwanda: the ballot box paradox

Perspective Media
March 23, 2025

THIS WEEK’S DEEP DIVE
Democracy inaction
BY GAVIN ESLER

Gavin Esler examines how last year’s record number of global elections masks a deepening crisis in democratic freedom. Using examples from Russia to Rwanda, Britain to America, he reveals how the mere act of voting increasingly serves to validate authoritarian control, while exploring how disinformation and violence threaten genuine democratic processes in even established democracies.

READ THE FULL STORY

People

In Conversation with Michael Palin

Joanna Grochowicz interviews Michael Palin about his latest volume of diaries "There and Back", exploring his evolution from Python to globe-trotting broadcaster. Through discussions about his marriage, travels and social activism, she reveals how Palin's rebellious spirit and natural curiosity have shaped both his personal life and professional journey.

www.perspectivemedia.com/michael-palin

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Once I got off the ship in Bombay, I realised: all I have to be is me. There's no point in trying to play a part or fit into some role which someone else has created for you

Comment

Our low-down on big issues

Unfree speech

Sam Fowles shares his personal experience of being targeted by self-proclaimed free speech advocates after writing about trans rights. He documents the harassment, legal threats and professional consequences he faced, and exposes the hypocrisy of those who claim to defend free expression while actively working to silence voices supporting marginalised communities.

www.perspectivemedia.com/unfree-speech

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The loudest calls to silence them often come from the same people who claim to defend free speech

Culture

The art of perturbation

Rachel Campbell Johnston examines how cultural institutions are increasingly restricting artistic expression amid political tensions and identity politics. From examples of galleries being cancelled to warnings from funding bodies, she argues that this new climate of intolerance threatens art’s essential role in fostering difficult conversations and challenging established perspectives.

www.perspectivemedia.com/the-art-of-perturbation

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Art can confront the establishment, question the status quo. It can show us the world from the perspective of others, question the machinations of political power, break through the boundaries that confine our societies

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