Which of the following is a challenge faced by contemporary democracies?

Political polarization is indeed a significant challenge faced by contemporary democracies. This phenomenon refers to the increasing ideological distance and division between political parties and their supporters. In many democratic nations, individuals are becoming more entrenched in their partisan beliefs, leading to reduced willingness to compromise and increased animosity toward opposing viewpoints.

The implications of political polarization are profound, as it can hinder effective governance, create gridlock in legislative bodies, and even contribute to social unrest. When citizens are divided along ideological lines, it affects not only political discourse but also social cohesion, making it challenging for democracies to address vital issues that require collective action.

The other options do not accurately represent contemporary challenges in the same way. Excessive voter turnout is generally viewed as a positive indicator of civic engagement, while uniformity in political beliefs contradicts the essence of a democracy, which thrives on diverse opinions and debates. Declining interest in global issues, while potentially problematic, does not capture the widespread impact and urgency of civil strife arising from polarization. Thus, political polarization stands out as a pressing concern for current democratic systems.