Democracy tackles climate crisis better

Which political system is best to confront the global climate crisis? While autocratic regimes often boast about decisive action, the evidence overwhelmingly points to democracy as the most effective system for tackling climate change. Democracy empowers citizens, holds leaders accountable and fosters innovation — all of which are crucial for decarbonization.

The connection between democracy and effective climate action is clear. The annual Climate Change Performance Index consistently ranks democratic nations at the forefront of climate leadership. Countries like Denmark, the Netherlands and Britain occupied the top three positions in 2024, underscoring how democratic governance drives ambitious climate policies. Their political systems allow for open debate, public participation and accountability, fostering societal consensus on the urgency of the climate crisis.

Take Sweden, for instance, a country with strong democratic traditions. It is no surprise that Greta Thunberg, a globally recognized climate activist, emerged from this environment. Thunberg’s ability to mobilize millions and influence policy could only happen in a society where freedom of speech and assembly are protected. Democracies empower individuals to act as watchdogs, pushing governments to take climate issues seriously.

In contrast, authoritarian regimes may suppress dissenting voices and prioritize short-term economic gains over sustainability. Climate action requires transparency, open dialogue and consensus-building — qualities lacking in autocratic systems. When citizens are excluded from decision-making, policies are often disconnected from public needs or even harmful to environmental goals.

Democracy also cultivates responsiveness to the evolving challenges of climate change. As citizens grow more concerned about extreme weather events their voices are more reflected through elections. Politicians in democratic systems are incentivized to prioritize climate policies. Otherwise, they will lose the next election. Likewise, a free press ensures that failures in leadership are exposed, raising awareness about solutions.

The recent declaration of martial law by the president disrupted the nation, plunging it into uncertainty. Yet, the swift action of citizens and lawmakers reversed the crisis, reaffirming the resilience of South Korea’s democracy. The impeachment of the president who overstepped democratic norms reflects South Korea’s strong democracy built on the courage and sacrifices of past generations — from the April 19 Revolution of 1960, the May 18 Democratic Movement of 1980, the June Democratic Uprising of 1987 and the Candlelight Revolution of 2016.

This hard-won democracy has enabled South Korean society to engage with climate change. Citizens, civil society organizations and media outlets have played vital roles in elevating climate concerns. Grassroots movements pressure the government to adopt ambitious climate targets, while public debates shape policies on energy transition and sustainable consumption. These dynamics are indispensable for addressing a challenge as complex as the climate crisis.

The importance of democracy becomes clearer when we consider its absence. In nations where dissent is stifled, environmental destruction often accelerates. Forests are razed for profit, regulations are weakened, and carbon emission is ignored. Citizens who speak out risk imprisonment, while state-controlled media suppresses information about climate impacts. Without mechanisms for accountability, environmental degradation goes unchecked.

Democracies are not without flaws. Political gridlock, short-term election cycles and conflicting interests can slow progress in climate mitigation. However, these challenges are far outweighed by democracy’s strengths: adaptability, transparency and its ability to harness the collective will of the people. Addressing the global climate emergency requires cooperation across borders, industries and generations — something democracies are better suited to achieve.

As South Korea reflects on the recent event, there is an opportunity to renew our commitment to democracy. The climate crisis demands strong democratic institutions that can respond to citizens’ needs. A robust democracy allows us to prioritize what truly matters, ensuring that issues like climate change are not sidelined in favor of short-term distractions.

Ultimately, protecting democracy is about protecting our climate. The stronger our democratic institutions, the louder the call for climate action, and the greater our chances of achieving a sustainable future. Climate change threatens every aspect of life. To confront it, we need systems that are accountable, inclusive and resilient — qualities democracy can provide better.

Democracy is fragile, but it is also powerful. By defending it, we honor the sacrifices of those who came before us and lay the foundation for a greener, fairer world. The fight for democracy and the fight against climate change are, at their core, one and the same. Both require courage and perseverance — a fight we cannot afford to lose.

Jang Daul (daul@oceanenergypathway.org) is a climate and energy expert and advocacy specialist.