Incumbents face major losses in global elections as voter dissatisfaction rises

In 2024, incumbents faced significant losses in elections across about 70 countries, affecting nearly half the world's population. Voter dissatisfaction has grown since the Covid-19 pandemic, driven by economic struggles and a sense of disconnect from political leaders. In Western democracies, incumbents were removed in 40 of 54 elections since 2020. The UK’s Conservative Party experienced its worst election result in over 190 years, while far-right parties gained ground in France and Germany. New leaders are also facing challenges, with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer's approval ratings dropping quickly. Voters are increasingly critical, raising concerns about the impact on democratic governance and the willingness of governments to enact change.