"Democracy at risk" refers to the condition where democratic principles, such as free elections, rule of law, and civil liberties, face threats from internal or external forces. This state can arise from authoritarian regimes, political polarization, or systemic issues like voter suppression. When these principles are undermined, public trust in the democratic process erodes, leading to decreased political participation and potentially destabilizing society. It is critical to recognize and address these threats to preserve democratic governance.