Is democracy under threat?

Lots of people are questioning whether democracy is worth defending. In a year when 4 billion people across the world are voting, the democratic spirit should be thriving but many people are thinking “none of the above” is the only attractive option.

Meanwhile our elites fear democracy - pointing to the dangers of populism and scoffing at the views of the uneducated, unwashed masses. They increasingly look to work around democratic structures with direct action on climate change, the use of judicial reviews and acceptance of rules made by supranational bodies.

Is a faith in old-fashioned democracy waning despite the fact that real political questions are widely contested? Are our democratic instincts being frustrated by our current institutions? Are citizens’ forums or frequent referendums part of the answer? How can we rescue democracy?

About our speaker

Hilary Salt is standing in the general election for the SDP in her home constituency of Wythenshawe and Sale East. She has recently retired from First Actuarial, a business she co-founded 20 years ago that now employs nearly 500 people across the UK. Her legacy in the pensions field is the development of the ground-breaking CDC pension scheme with the Communication Workers Union and Royal Mail. She is a member of the Council of the Institute and Faculty of Actuaries. Hilary has two grown up sons, a lovingly tended garden, a VW campervan and a season ticket to Old Trafford.

Host or Publisher East Midlands Salon