How Democracies Recover from Political Instability and What We Can Learn

Democracies are tested in moments of crisis. Corrupt leaders, economic collapse, threats of authoritarianism – these challenges can push even strong systems to the brink. Some democracies fail. Others fight back and emerge stronger. The difference lies in the institutions, and the willingness of the people and their leaders to fight for them. 

The United States now is experiencing a test of its own — deep polarization and heated debates about the power of different branches of government make our country’s political future uncertain. But, history shows that democracies can recover from instability — if they have the mechanisms and will to do so. By looking at other examples in recent years, we can see how countries pull themselves back from the edge, so we may know how to do the same.

GET INVOLVED: Sign up to receive emails from No Labels

Example #1: South Korea 

On December 3, 2024, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law at 10:30 p.m., claiming that opposition leaders in the National Assembly were “anti-state” actors threatening national security. He dissolved parliament and cracked down on media critical of his government. It was an unprecedented assault on South Korea’s democracy.

But the system fought back—literally. Lawmakers jumped military roadblocks and held an emergency session, voting overwhelmingly to overturn the martial law order. Massive protests erupted nationwide. The Constitutional Court, under intense scrutiny, ruled against Yoon, leading to his impeachment.

The crisis exposed how fragile democracy can be, but it also reaffirmed the strength of South Korea’s institutions.. The judiciary and legislature acted as a check on executive overreach, and public resistance ensured that democracy prevailed.

Example #2: Slovenia 

Slovenia, a stable democracy since gaining independence in 1991, was shaken by the 2008 financial crisis. The country’s banking sector had racked up massive foreign debt, triggering an economic collapse that fueled public anger and distrust in government. Political instability followed, with multiple corruption scandals and a series of short-lived governments.

Yet Slovenia avoided democratic backsliding. Protest movements pushed for greater transparency, and institutional reforms were put in place to curb corruption. By the mid-2010s, economic recovery efforts had stabilized the country, and public confidence in democratic governance began to rebound.

The Slovenian case highlights another key aspect of democratic recovery: legitimacy. When people believe their government is working for them—through transparency, accountability, and economic stability—democracy can regain strength even after severe crises.

Example #3: Brazil

Brazil’s democracy has faced multiple tests since its transition from military rule in the 1980s, but few were as severe as the January 8, 2023, when there was an attack on government institutions in Brasília. Supporters of former President Jair Bolsonaro, refusing to accept his electoral defeat, stormed the Supreme Court, Congress, and presidential offices, calling for military intervention.

However, the country’s institutions responded swiftly and decisively. Security forces regained control within hours, and authorities launched a comprehensive investigation, leading to arrests of key organizers and political figures who incited the violence. The Supreme Court played a crucial role, upholding democratic norms and ensuring accountability.

Brazil’s response demonstrated the importance of institutional resilience and legal accountability in democratic recovery. By upholding the rule of law and reinforcing electoral legitimacy, the country navigated a dangerous moment without slipping into authoritarianism. This example underscores how swift legal and institutional responses can protect democracy from violent threats.

Path to Recovery from Political Instability

These cases, reveal three core principles for democratic survival:

  1. Strong Institutions Matter – Courts, legislatures, and independent media must be able to check executive overreach. When they do, democracy can thrive. Independent and well-designed institutions are the backbone of democratic recovery. 
  2. Civic Engagement is Essential – Protests, activism, and public pressure can force leaders to uphold democratic norms. A disengaged public is an invitation for an unaccountable government that chips away at people’s liberties. The public must maintain some system of accountability for their leaders.
  3. Trust Must Be Rebuilt – After a crisis, governments must restore public confidence through transparency, accountability, and economic stability. Without trust, democracy remains vulnerable.

The United States is not immune to instability. But if history is any guide, democracies that fight for their institutions—and refuse to accept democratic erosion as inevitable—can survive.

In the end, the recovery of democracy is not accidental—it is the product of unwavering commitment to the rule of law, and the courage to stand up for the values that bind us together.

What are you waiting for? Join our movement today to be part of history: Support us with a donation, get involved with volunteer efforts, or simply stay informed by signing up emails as we solve problems for everyday Americans.