Women play diverse roles in and exert major influence on popular movements against democratic erosion around the world, from Brazil to Hungary to India.

Many autocratic leaders have understood the power of women’s political action and are taking steps to co-opt or undermine it. Those looking to support democracy should take note.

In 2023, the EU and its member states became less proactive in promoting new democracy strategies and funding. While they focused on longer-term reforms in Ukraine and other states, the eruption of several crises along Europe’s borders complicated an emphasis on the global defense of democracy.

Greece, Italy, Portugal, and Spain have generally been more cautious about prioritizing democracy support policies over other issues such as migration. Their geographical location may help to explain the difference in their strategic interests compared to other EU countries.

In a year dominated by the rhetoric of defending democracy, EU democracy support policies were adjusted in important ways to align with the new geopolitical context. However, the union also seemed to treat commitments in this area as second-order priorities compared to security.

In 2021, the EU and members states put in place new policies and processes aimed at supporting democracy. This Annual Review summarizes how and where Europe is directing these funds, and what are the impacts.

As U.S. President Joe Biden convenes this week’s Summit for Democracy, governments around the world are gearing up to participate—or not. Here’s what some global players are looking for.