Populism vs. Democratic Institutions

The following passage discusses the challenges faced by modern democracies:

The rise of populism in various nations has led to a renewed critique of the democratic process, with some arguing that traditional democratic institutions are increasingly ineffective in addressing the needs and concerns of average citizens. Proponents of populism assert that these institutions uphold the status quo, fostering disillusionment among the populace and prompting calls for a more direct form of democracy. However, critics warn that the embrace of populism often comes at the expense of established democratic norms, leading to polarization and instability. The balance between maintaining institutional integrity and responding to populist sentiments presents a formidable challenge for contemporary democracies.