Hossein, how much of the disparities between counties can be attributed to religion? The reins of faith can be hijacked, but the genuine concern is authoritarianism. Yes?

Could the UK, with a Muslim majority, be a democracy?

Can Christian-majority countries become less democratic? We have seen it in some Eastern European countries (and Muslim Turkey), Brazil, and Mexico.

Trade and interconnection don't necessarily create or guarantee democracies (as we have witnessed with Russia and China), but they make them closer to and more likely. If the U.S. had continued unimpeded exchanges of people and goods with Cuba, Venezuela, and Iran, these countries would be more normal in the world. Our not-great relations with Mexico have contributed to the concentration of power by Obrador.

America's increased protectionism and isolation from its rivals (and friends) encourages more nationalism globally, which is unhelpful regarding the question in your title.

Always excellent. Many thanks. Best.