Preserving Democracy: Papal Perspectives

When Pope Francis made his apostolic visit to Greece in 2021, he lauded the country as the birthplace of democracy that began to see others as fellow citizens of the entire world. In his formal address to the Greek government and citizens, the pope noted his concern that around the world we are witnessing a “retreat from democracy” and a “skepticism about democracy” provoked by fears and theories amplified by virtual communication that creates division in society. Francis reminds us that democracy is complex and demands hard work and patience, while authoritarianism offers easy answers that appear effective. Democracy that involves universal participation is not only essential to achieving shared goals but also corresponds to our nature as social beings, at once unique and interdependent.

Warning against “ideological colonization,” Francis insisted that “good politics” involves all citizens in seeking the common good that gives priority to the “weaker strata of society.” Seeking the common good demands a change of direction in which we help our country pass “from partisanship to participation,” Pope Francis concluded his beautiful inspiring address with the hope that “democracy may be the response to the siren songs of authoritarianism and that individualism and indifference may be overcome by concern for others, for the poor and for creation.”

In 2023, Pope Francis wrote a letter to the International Development Law Organization insisting that upholding the rule of law is essential to preserving democracy. At a time when people question the legitimacy of government, Francis said restoring trust will require “upholding the rule of law and the equality of citizens before it.” This commitment will encourage participation in the political process and the development of policies that treat all persons with dignity and respect.

In supporting democracy, Pope Francis built on the teachings of Pope John Paul who in his 1991 encyclical The Hundredth Year declared: “The Church values the democratic system in as much as it ensures the participation of citizens in making political choices, guarantees to the governed the possibility both of elections and holding accountable those who govern them and of replacing them through peaceful means when appropriate.” The pope added that the Church cannot support groups that put their own interests above the interests of the State (n 46).

John Paul went on to observe a tendency today to base democracy on “skeptical relativism” that holds truth is subject to variation according to political trends. If there is no ultimate truth, the pope argues then political activity can easily be manipulated to gain power. John Paul concluded: “A democracy without values easily turns into open or thinly disguised totalitarianism” (Ibid).

Which papal teaching is most helpful to me in defending democracy?