Ep 15. 4/14/2019

Fareed Zakaria GPS is a weekly news show that features in-depth analysis and commentary on global issues, politics, and economics. Each episode of the show focuses on a particular theme or topic, with interviews and discussions with experts and world leaders.

In the 15th episode of the 2019 season, which aired on April 14th, Fareed Zakaria explores the state of global democracy and the challenges facing the world's democratic institutions. The episode features interviews with prominent figures in the world of politics, including former Vice President Joe Biden, former Mexican President Vicente Fox, and journalist and author Anne Applebaum.

Zakaria begins the episode with a discussion of the rise of authoritarianism around the world, citing examples in Russia, China, and Turkey. He argues that these governments are using various tactics, such as suppressing the media and undermining the rule of law, to consolidate power and silence dissent. He notes that this trend is not limited to countries with a history of authoritarianism, but is also affecting long-standing democracies like the United States, where the Trump administration has been accused of attacking the media and seeking to undermine the independence of the judiciary.

To gain further insight into the state of global democracy, Zakaria turns to the former Vice President of the United States, Joe Biden. Biden reflects on his time in office and his experiences working both to promote democracy abroad and to strengthen democratic institutions at home. He also shares his thoughts on the current state of American democracy and the role of the media in holding elected officials accountable.

Next, Zakaria speaks with former Mexican President Vicente Fox about the challenges of promoting democracy in Latin America. Fox reflects on his time in office and discusses the current state of Mexican politics, including the rise of populist movements and the ongoing debate over immigration from Central America.

The episode concludes with a discussion with journalist and author Anne Applebaum about the rise of right-wing populism in Europe and its impact on democratic institutions in the region. Applebaum argues that the rise of populist movements is not solely a response to economic or social issues, but is also fueled by a larger cultural and ideological shift. She notes that these movements often seek to undermine democratic institutions, such as the judiciary and the media, in order to consolidate power.

Overall, the 15th episode of Fareed Zakaria GPS provides a detailed examination of the challenges facing global democracy. Through interviews with experts and world leaders, Zakaria highlights the ways in which authoritarianism and right-wing populism are threatening democratic institutions around the world. The episode offers valuable insights into the state of global politics and the ongoing struggle to promote and defend democratic values.