The Rising Tide of Autocracy and Its Global Impact on Democracy with Anne Applebaum and Larry Mantle
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In a recent America at a Crossroads discussion, Pulitzer Prize-winning historian and political commentator Ann Applebaum explored the threats to democracy posed by growing autocratic influence globally. With decades of experience studying political history, especially in Eastern and Central Europe, Applebaum is a leading voice on the rise of authoritarian regimes and their impact on democratic institutions. Her insights delve into what nations and citizens alike can do to preserve democratic values in an increasingly complex global landscape, where political backsliding and institutional mistrust continue to grow.
The Shifting Dynamics of Global Democracy
Applebaum began by describing the unsettling shifts away from democracy in several countries, emphasizing that such trends are not confined to distant nations. In countries like Hungary, Poland, and Turkey, leaders have been gradually dismantling democratic safeguards, exploiting government institutions for personal gain, and eroding the independence of the judiciary and media. A key example, she noted, is Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, who has systematically curtailed media freedoms and manipulated the judiciary to ensure that he maintains power indefinitely. By employing populist rhetoric, Orbán has cultivated public support while restricting opposition voices—a strategy that demonstrates how democratic systems can be subverted from within.
The United States, though a more established democracy, is not immune to these forces, Applebaum warned. She discussed former President Donald Trump’s influence, noting his public attacks on the media and his disregard for traditional democratic norms. Such behavior, she argued, mirrors tactics employed by autocratic leaders worldwide, who often work to undermine public trust in the media and in democratic institutions to consolidate power. For many Americans, she suggested, these signals of democratic backsliding are deeply concerning, reflecting a potential trend toward “autocracy by increments” even in the United States.
The Role of Media and Public Trust
A recurring theme in Applebaum’s analysis was the essential role of media in maintaining public trust in democracy. She highlighted the controversy surrounding The Washington Post, particularly the decision by its owner, Jeff Bezos, to forego endorsing a candidate in the upcoming election. Applebaum pointed out that many viewed this decision as a capitulation to political pressure, creating a perception that Bezos was compromising the paper’s journalistic integrity. Such actions, she argued, erode trust in the media, which is already facing persistent attacks from political figures. In the long run, this decline in public confidence weakens democracy itself, as citizens become increasingly skeptical of the institutions designed to hold leaders accountable.
The Consequences for International Alliances
As the conversation shifted to international relations, Applebaum underscored the importance of global alliances in sustaining democratic norms. She warned that the rise of autocratic leaders could significantly disrupt international coalitions, especially if influential countries begin to prioritize self-interest over collective democratic values. For example, Applebaum explained that if the U.S. withdraws support from Ukraine, European countries like Poland and Germany may be forced to reassess their defense policies, potentially increasing their own military spending and alliances independently of the United States.
In addition to the challenges facing NATO, Applebaum expressed concerns about potential shifts in alliances beyond Europe. If the United States abandons its role as a coalition leader, she cautioned, countries in Asia, Africa, and Latin America may start forming strategic partnerships with non-democratic powers like China and Russia. This fragmentation of the democratic world would create a more polarized and unstable global order, with authoritarianism gaining influence as democratic unity declines.
Maintaining Democracy in Turbulent Times
To close, Applebaum offered practical advice for citizens who are concerned about the erosion of democratic values. She encouraged people to actively participate in democracy by volunteering as poll workers, joining get-out-the-vote efforts, and supporting organizations dedicated to election integrity. She also highlighted the importance of staying informed and supporting reliable news sources, stressing that a well-informed populace is crucial for maintaining a resilient democracy. “Remember that you can always do something to support democracy,” she said.
In a world where democracy increasingly faces challenges from within and abroad, Applebaum’s message serves as a powerful reminder that preserving democratic values requires vigilance, participation, and a commitment to truth.
About America at a Crossroads
Since April 2020, America at a Crossroads has produced weekly virtual programs on topics related to the preservation of our democracy, voting rights, freedom of the press, and a wide array of civil rights, including abortion rights, free speech, and free press. America at a Crossroads is a project of Jews United for Democracy & Justice.