The Republican Hundred Year War On Democracy – Emptywheel

Report on the Political and Institutional Challenges to Democracy and Sustainable Development

Introduction

This report examines the ongoing political struggle in the United States, highlighting the significant challenges posed by entrenched wealthy interests and their impact on democratic institutions. The analysis emphasizes the importance of aligning actions with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those related to peace, justice, strong institutions (SDG 16), reduced inequalities (SDG 10), and quality education (SDG 4).

The Battlefield of Democracy

The concentration of power among the ultra-wealthy has historically undermined democratic governance. Despite temporary progress during the Progressive Era and the New Deal, these forces have persistently worked to erode democratic institutions and social equity.

1. Historical Context
   • Early 20th-century reforms were challenged by conservative judicial decisions.
   • The Great Depression era saw a reduction in oligarchic power under Franklin D. Roosevelt’s administration.
   • Since then, wealthy elites have continuously sought to dismantle progressive legacies and democratic norms.
2. Political Dynamics
   • The Republican Party has played a central role in advancing policies that weaken labor rights and social protections, countering SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth).
   • Anti-intellectual and anti-democratic rhetoric has intensified under recent administrations, threatening SDG 16.

Institutional Attacks and Their Impact on SDGs

Congress

• Partisan control and internal discipline have led to legislative gridlock, undermining effective governance (SDG 16).
• Legislative obstruction has stalled progress on social and economic reforms essential for reducing inequalities (SDG 10).

The Administrative State

• Government agencies empowered to implement policies for public welfare face systematic weakening through budget cuts and leadership changes.
• Judicial interpretations limiting agency powers hinder environmental protection and public health efforts, conflicting with SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and SDG 13 (Climate Action).
• Political interference has compromised scientific research and regulatory functions critical to sustainable development.

The Judiciary

• Increasing politicization of judicial appointments threatens the independence of the judiciary (SDG 16).
• Decisions favoring elite interests undermine the rule of law and equitable access to justice.

State Governments

• Federal-state tensions have escalated, with federal actions penalizing states pursuing inclusive policies aligned with SDG 10 and SDG 4.
• Interventions in state governance challenge the decentralization and local empowerment essential for sustainable development.

Private Institutions

• Higher education institutions face political and financial pressures that threaten academic freedom and quality education (SDG 4).
• Corporate and legal sectors have shifted priorities away from social responsibility, impacting SDG 8 and SDG 16.
• Efforts to dismantle diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives undermine social cohesion and equality.

Strategic Responses Aligned with Sustainable Development Goals

1. Collective Action
   • Mobilize communities to advocate for democratic principles and social justice (SDG 16, SDG 10).
   • Support campaigns targeting influential actors undermining democratic and sustainable development efforts.
2. Educational Engagement
   • Encourage alumni and stakeholders to hold educational institutions accountable for upholding inclusive and quality education (SDG 4).
   • Promote global academic collaboration to mitigate national political constraints.
3. Economic Choices
   • Redirect consumer spending away from corporations that support regressive policies.
   • Advocate for corporate responsibility in supporting equitable and sustainable practices (SDG 8, SDG 12).
4. Legal and Policy Advocacy
   • Encourage law firms to provide pro bono services to vulnerable populations affected by unjust policies.
   • Press corporations to influence policymakers toward sustainable and inclusive economic and immigration policies.

Conclusion

The current political and institutional landscape presents a complex and extensive challenge to democracy and sustainable development. However, by concentrating efforts strategically and aligning actions with the Sustainable Development Goals, it is possible to counteract regressive forces and promote a more equitable and just society. The lessons from historical strategies, such as those employed by Napoleon at the Battle of Austerlitz, suggest focusing resources on critical vulnerabilities to achieve meaningful progress.

Featured image: Map of the Battle of Austerlitz, symbolizing strategic concentration of forces.

1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed or Connected

1. SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions
   • The article discusses attacks on democracy, judiciary, and government institutions, highlighting threats to peace, justice, and strong institutions.
2. SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
   • The concentration of power among the “filthy rich” and the undermining of democratic institutions reflect issues of inequality and social injustice.
3. SDG 4: Quality Education
   • The article addresses attacks on higher education, reduced public support, and policies harming educational institutions.
4. SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
   • References to weakening labor unions, anti-worker legislation, and economic policies affecting working people relate to decent work and economic growth.
5. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
   • Mention of government neglect on cancer research and toxic chemicals affecting public health.

2. Specific Targets Under Those SDGs Identified

1. SDG 16 Targets
   • 16.6: Develop effective, accountable and transparent institutions at all levels.
   • 16.3: Promote the rule of law at the national and international levels and ensure equal access to justice for all.
   • 16.10: Ensure public access to information and protect fundamental freedoms.
2. SDG 10 Targets
   • 10.2: Empower and promote the social, economic and political inclusion of all.
   • 10.4: Adopt policies, especially fiscal, wage and social protection policies, to progressively achieve greater equality.
3. SDG 4 Targets
   • 4.3: Ensure equal access for all women and men to affordable and quality technical, vocational and tertiary education.
   • 4.5: Eliminate gender disparities and ensure equal access to all levels of education and vocational training.
4. SDG 8 Targets
   • 8.5: Achieve full and productive employment and decent work for all women and men.
   • 8.8: Protect labor rights and promote safe and secure working environments for all workers.
5. SDG 3 Targets
   • 3.4: Reduce by one third premature mortality from non-communicable diseases through prevention and treatment.
   • 3.9: Reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water and soil pollution and contamination.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied to Measure Progress

1. For SDG 16
   • Indicator 16.6.1: Primary government expenditures as a proportion of original approved budget, by sector (or by budget codes or similar).
   • Indicator 16.3.1: Proportion of victims of violence who reported their victimization to competent authorities.
   • Indicator 16.10.2: Number of countries that adopt and implement constitutional, statutory and/or policy guarantees for public access to information.
2. For SDG 10
   • Indicator 10.2.1: Proportion of people living below 50% of median income, by sex, age and persons with disabilities.
   • Indicator 10.4.1: Labor share of GDP, comprising wages and social protection transfers.
3. For SDG 4
   • Indicator 4.3.1: Participation rate of youth and adults in formal and non-formal education and training in the previous 12 months.
   • Indicator 4.5.1: Parity indices (female/male, rural/urban, bottom/top wealth quintile and others) for all education indicators.
4. For SDG 8
   • Indicator 8.5.2: Unemployment rate, by sex, age and persons with disabilities.
   • Indicator 8.8.1: Frequency rates of fatal and non-fatal occupational injuries, by sex and migrant status.
5. For SDG 3
   • Indicator 3.4.1: Mortality rate attributed to cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes or chronic respiratory disease.
   • Indicator 3.9.1: Mortality rate attributed to unintentional poisoning.

4. Table: SDGs, Targets and Indicators

Source: emptywheel.net