India’s EAM Jaishankar Criticizes West’s “Double Standards” on Democracy at Munich Security Conference

Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar launched a sharp critique of the West’s approach to democracy during his address at the Munich Security Conference 2025, accusing Western nations of double standards in their global advocacy for democratic values.
Jaishankar took particular aim at the hypocrisy he sees in the West’s promotion of democracy, noting that the values touted by Western leaders in their home countries are often not upheld when it comes to foreign policy. “The West treats democracy as a Western characteristic, as though it’s their exclusive domain,” Jaishankar stated, emphasizing that these values should be universal, not selectively applied.
“Practice What You Preach”
Jaishankar’s comments were made during a lively discussion on the state of global democracy, where he called for a more consistent and impartial approach to the promotion of democratic ideals. He argued that the West often falls short in its own actions, pointing to instances where Western countries fail to support democratic movements or even align with authoritarian regimes when it suits their interests.
“The values you preach at home are not always the values you follow abroad,” Jaishankar remarked, accusing Western powers of prioritizing geopolitical interests over the principles of democracy and human rights. His remarks resonated with many in the international community, who have also raised concerns about Western interventionism and selective support for democratic transitions in other regions.
Highlighting Global Disparities
The Indian minister’s comments come amid growing global concerns about the state of democracy, especially in the context of rising authoritarianism in several parts of the world. Jaishankar underscored that the promotion of democracy should not be limited to a Western-centric framework but should be universally embraced by all nations, regardless of their geopolitical affiliations or regional alliances.
Jaishankar’s address at the Munich Security Conference drew attention to the need for greater accountability in the promotion of democracy worldwide, stressing that the international community must move beyond partisan interests and adopt a more inclusive and equitable approach to fostering democratic values.
A Challenge to Western Influence
The speech marked a bold challenge to the longstanding influence of Western powers in shaping the global narrative around democracy. India’s stance, as articulated by Jaishankar, signals a growing desire for a more multipolar world order, where the principles of democracy and human rights are not seen through the lens of Western interests but as fundamental rights for all nations.
Jaishankar’s remarks are also a reflection of India’s broader foreign policy approach, which emphasizes non-interference, sovereignty, and mutual respect among nations. The critique of Western double standards at the Munich Security Conference serves as a reminder that global issues should be addressed with consistency, fairness, and respect for all cultures and political systems.
Looking Ahead: A Changing Global Landscape
As global democracy continues to face challenges, Jaishankar’s comments highlight the need for a reevaluation of how democratic values are promoted on the world stage. With India emerging as a key player in global diplomacy, its call for a more equitable approach to democracy may spark new discussions on the role of the West in shaping global political norms.
The Munich Security Conference served as a platform for Jaishankar to challenge traditional Western narratives, urging a more inclusive and genuine commitment to democratic principles that transcend regional and ideological boundaries.