What U.S. election results mean for the world

Many people are deeply concerned about the consequences of the U.S. election results for people organizing for social change around the world.

We’re checking in with our sisters and brothers from Faith in Action International affiliates to hear how they see the election affecting their countries and what support we can provide. In the meantime, we know the world is closely watching the U.S. and has much to teach Americans about defending democracy.

Over the past several years, we’ve watched grassroots leaders in El Salvador and Haiti struggle to better their lives as their countries have become less and less democratic. They’ve given us hope by showing what can be achieved under extremely difficult circumstances and how disciplined bottom-up organizing can build the foundation for democracy and social progress.

We’ve learned how important international solidarity is in helping people hold their governments accountable. One risk is that politicians in countries large and small see the U.S. election results as a green light to engage in corruption and crack down on civic organizations, which are growing problems across the globe. That’s why we’re committed to A Way Forward in Haiti and the Root Causes of Migration Initiative to support grassroots organizing and democracy in Haiti and Central America.

A lesson from countries facing authoritarian regimes is that democracy is most vulnerable when it fails to improve lives. People must see democracy as a tool, a sacred resource, not an abstract or elite institution. That is why organizing, which enables people to negotiate change in their communities and countries, is critical.

People organizing in Latin America, the Caribbean, Africa, and Eastern Europe have a wealth of experience fighting for democracy in connection to the daily pressures they face in putting food on the table and a roof over their heads. In the coming months, we look forward to creating more dialogue between pro-democracy efforts in the U.S. and globally so ideals about good governance and the rule of law stay grounded in people’s lives.

Here is an article about lessons from Hungary for organizing under authoritarian regimes.

Please share your reflections and ideas for how we can best support organizing and democracy globally during these turbulent times.

Thank you for keeping our sisters and brothers in your prayers.

More than ever, our international affiliates need your support, so please donate as part of our end-of-year appeal. All donations will be doubled through December 31.