Meaning: The quote by Susan George raises the critical issue of achieving democracy at the international level. It draws parallels between the contemporary challenge of establishing global democracy and the historical struggle for democratic governance at the national level in the 18th century. This comparison serves to highlight the magnitude and complexity of the task, emphasizing that the pursuit of international democracy represents a continuation of the same fundamental challenge that has recurred throughout history.

In the 18th century, the concept of democracy as a form of governance was a radical departure from the prevailing systems of monarchy, aristocracy, and oligarchy. The struggle to establish democracy at the national level involved overcoming entrenched power structures, advocating for individual rights and freedoms, and creating mechanisms for popular participation in decision-making processes. This historical context provides a framework for understanding the contemporary quest for democracy at the global level.

At the heart of Susan George's quote is the recognition that the principles and values underlying democracy—such as equality, representation, and accountability—must be extended beyond national borders to address the challenges of an increasingly interconnected and interdependent world. The call for international democracy reflects a growing awareness of the need for inclusive and participatory governance structures that can effectively address transnational issues and promote global justice.

In the current global landscape, political, economic, and environmental decisions often have far-reaching implications that transcend national boundaries. However, the mechanisms for democratic decision-making and accountability have not kept pace with the interconnected nature of contemporary challenges. This gap raises fundamental questions about the legitimacy and effectiveness of global governance institutions, prompting calls for greater democratization at the international level.

The quest for international democracy is underscored by the need to address issues such as global inequality, climate change, human rights violations, and conflicts that require collective action and cooperation among nations. While international organizations and treaties exist to facilitate cooperation, the democratic deficit in global governance remains a significant obstacle to achieving equitable and sustainable solutions to these complex problems.

Susan George's quote serves as a reminder that the struggle for democracy is an ongoing and evolving endeavor that is not confined by national borders. It challenges us to confront the structures of power and decision-making that shape the global order, and to envision new forms of inclusive and participatory governance that can effectively address the complexities of the 21st century.

In response to the question of how to achieve democracy at the international level, various proposals and initiatives have emerged. These range from calls for reforms within existing international institutions to the advocacy for the creation of new mechanisms for global governance. Additionally, civil society organizations, activists, and scholars have been instrumental in advancing the agenda for international democracy through advocacy, research, and grassroots mobilization.

Efforts to democratize global governance have also explored innovative approaches, such as participatory decision-making processes, direct citizen engagement, and the inclusion of marginalized voices in global policy discussions. Furthermore, the concept of global citizenship has gained traction as a way to foster a sense of shared responsibility and agency among individuals in shaping the future of the planet.

In conclusion, Susan George's quote encapsulates the profound challenge of securing democracy at the international level and invokes the historical struggle for democracy at the national level as a point of reference. It underscores the urgency of addressing the democratic deficit in global governance and calls for innovative and inclusive approaches to democratizing decision-making processes on a global scale. As we grapple with the complexities of the modern world, the pursuit of international democracy remains a vital and evolving imperative that demands collective engagement and visionary leadership.