Beyond free trade and protectionism
Andrew Watt and Claes-Mikael Ståhl argue that trade policy has weakened unions and democracy, and propose an open, democratically governed, pro-worker economy where trade advances share social goals
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Democracy
This week’s featured stories 7 September – 13 September 2026…
Welcome to the WCR weekly update. World Commerce Review is the global trade and finance platform, discussing all things political, regulatory, technological, financial and, most importantly, the future
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The power of words and the fragility of democracy
Democracy flourishes when free expression is robust. In the foreword to the Autumn edition of World Commerce Review the editor writes that to secure a future of prosperity and unity, society must resist divisive rhetoric, reject suppression, and champion the open discourse that underpins true democratic vitality
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Elon Musk and the narratives of decadence
Felix Schilk considers the idea of decadence, and argues moral decline triggered by excessive indulgence links all anti-democratic movements, and can be seen throughout history
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Political leadership in the 21st century
Mikuláš Dzurinda considers the rise of populism and authoritarianism, arguing for politicians to promote the necessary reforms and carry out the necessary changes to combat threats to democracy
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Elections and devaluations
An unprecedented number of voters will go to the polls globally in 2024. Jeffrey Frankel discusses incumbent’s efforts to buoy the economy and the post-election economic situations
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The populist dynamic
There has been a surge in populism across Western democracies. Vincenzo Galasso, Massimo Morelli, Tommaso Nannicini and Piero Stanig evaluate how ruling parties might counter populism
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Interpreting the Dutch general election
The Dutch election could be a litmus test for 2024 elections. Patrick van Schie provides an insight into the November election
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Decisions ahead and takeaways for the EU
Alicia García-Herrero argues the EU should try to attract more business from Taiwan, though Taiwan’s January 2024 election hasn’t made the job easier
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Citizens protest against compulsion and coercion
Patrick van Schie discusses the provincial elections in the Netherlands, and examines whether this might be part of a broader trend among voters in Western democracies
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