A Global Backslide: Understanding The Factors Fueling Authoritarian Trends

Oct 20, 2022 · As the world faces a democratic recession, many of the most common explanations fall short. But looking more closely at antidemocratic leaders’ motivations and methods reveals valuable insights about different types of backsliding and how international actors should respond. Aug 12, 2024 · This phenomenon poses significant challenges to governance, human rights, and global stability. This article explores the causes and manifestations of democratic backsliding, strategies for identifying it, and effective responses to safeguard democratic principles worldwide. Feb 10, 2026 · This special series draws on CORRECTIV.Exile’s network of journalists and professionals remains under pressure to document how authoritarian leaders are learning from one another and accelerating democratic backsliding worldwide. Apr 30, 2026 · Across many nations, a clear relationship has emerged between the rise of authoritarian governance and the weakening of fundamental rights. But, why does this pattern exist? A prominent contemporary phenomenon is an apparent “backsliding” of democratic countries into (semi-)authoritarian practices. Importantly, such episodes unfold over time, and of-ten involve uncertainty about the ultimate intentions of governments. May 24, 2025 · Post-communist countries in Eastern Europe and the Balkans have experienced significant democratic backsliding in recent years. The rise of authoritarian leaders and the erosion of democratic institutions have been notable trends in countries such as Hungary, Poland, and Turkey. Each of these review articles makes a unique contribution to the larger scholarly discussion on this important topic. Collectively, they inform our understanding of the causes and consequences of democratic backsliding, as well as possible solutions.