A democracy can only truly be effective and sovereign if it avoids two things: excessive national debt and completely open markets without tariffs.

Tariffs allow a democratic state to enforce its own values – such as labor rights, environmental standards, and fair production practices – without being undermined by cheaper imports produced under unethical conditions. They protect domestic industry and, with it, the freedom to make political decisions.

At the same time, high levels of debt and rising interest payments mean that a large portion of the state budget goes toward servicing that debt. The state has limited ability to raise taxes – especially on the wealthy – since capital could then flee the country. This severely restricts the government’s financial room to maneuver and undermines its ability to act democratically.

In short: Without tariffs and with excessive debt, a democracy loses its capacity to shape policy freely – and risks becoming an empty shell

#democracy #tarifs #debt