AUTOCRATIZATION: THE ENEMY AHEAD OF TIME AN INTERNATIONAL APPROACH

Source: V-Dem Interactive Maps (info collected from 2023, last accessed in Oct, 4th, 2024)

APA full citation: Filho, C. I. (2024, October 7). Autocratization: The Enemy Ahead of Time (An International Approach). EBS I&D Centre. https://www.ebscentre.org/law-and-politicalscience/

Abstract

Autocratization, the gradual erosion of democratic institutions and norms, has become a global concern, with numerous countries experiencing democratic backsliding in recent years. This article explores international initiatives aimed at countering autocratization, drawing on efforts from multilateral organizations, regional alliances, and civil society. Key initiatives include the United Nations' promotion of democratic governance through the UN Democracy Fund, the European Union's use of conditionality and civil society support, and the role of non-governmental organizations in fostering pro-democracy movements. Additionally, the U.S.-led Summit for Democracy and regional organizations such as the Organization of American States and the African Union have sought to address autocratic trends. However, challenges such as state sovereignty, geopolitical selectivity, and digital authoritarianism complicate these efforts. The article concludes that while international cooperation is essential to halt autocratization, innovative approaches are needed to address the evolving nature of authoritarianism in a rapidly changing global context.

Keywords: autocratization, democratic backsliding, international initiatives, United Nations, European Union, civil society, digital authoritarianism.

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Introduction

Autocratization—the process by which democratic governance erodes and shifts towards authoritarianism—has become a pressing concern globally. Over the past decade, numerous countries have witnessed the decline of democratic institutions, the concentration of power in the hands of elites, and the suppression of political freedoms (Lührmann & Lindberg, 2019). While autocratization occurs within national borders, its implications extend internationally, threatening the stability of regional and global systems.

As autocratic regimes consolidate power through electoral manipulation, suppression of civil liberties, and control of the media, the international community has recognized the need for coordinated efforts to halt this phenomenon. Various international organizations, coalitions, and governments have launched initiatives to address autocratization, safeguard democratic institutions, and promote democratic resilience.

This article aims to analyze key international initiatives aimed at tackling autocratization, focusing on multilateral organizations, democratic alliances, and specific interventions. It draws from political science and international relations literature, exploring both the effectiveness and limitations of these initiatives.

Defining Autocratization and Its Global Impact

The Concept of Autocratization

Autocratization refers to the gradual erosion of democratic norms, institutions, and processes, often resulting in the concentration of executive power, curtailment of political rights, and weakening of rule-of-law principles (Cassani & Tomini, 2020). Unlike traditional authoritarianism, autocratization is often incremental and occurs under the guise of democratic legitimacy, where elections and democratic institutions are subverted to serve authoritarian interests (Mechkova, Lührmann, & Lindberg, 2017).

This process involves various tactics, such as judicial manipulation, gerrymandering, and attacks on the press, designed to maintain the illusion of democracy while limiting genuine political competition and civic participation (Bermeo, 2016). The rise of populist leaders who challenge democratic norms further accelerates this phenomenon.

The Global Rise of Autocratization

Recent reports indicate a growing number of democracies are backsliding towards authoritarianism. According to Lührmann and Lindberg (2019), one-third of the world's population now lives in countries experiencing autocratization. Notable examples include Hungary, Turkey, Venezuela, and Poland, where once-promising democratic regimes have increasingly exhibited autocratic tendencies.

The international consequences of autocratization are profound. Autocratic regimes often engage in human rights abuses, destabilise regional peace, and undermine international democratic norms. Additionally, autocracies may contribute to international conflicts, support illicit economic activities, and challenge the global liberal order (Levitsky & Ziblatt, 2018).

International Initiatives to Counter Autocratization

1. The Role of the United Nations

The United Nations (UN) has historically played a critical role in promoting democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. However, its ability to directly address autocratization is often limited by the sovereignty of member states and the veto power wielded by permanent members of the UN Security Council, some of whom are themselves accused of autocratic practices (Bjørnskov & Voigt, 2020).

Despite these limitations, the UN has undertaken several initiatives to combat autocratization. The UN Democracy Fund (UNDEF), established in 2005, supports projects that promote democratic governance, strengthen civil society, and advance human rights worldwide (United Nations, 2023). UNDEF-funded projects aim to build democratic resilience in fragile states by encouraging citizen participation and accountability.

The UN's work in promoting human rights, through mechanisms like the Universal Periodic Review (UPR), also plays a role in discouraging autocratization by holding governments accountable for human rights violations. The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights and its special rapporteurs engage with countries exhibiting autocratic trends, advocating for democratic reforms and monitoring state practices.

2. The European Union's Democracy Promotion Efforts

The European Union (EU) has been at the forefront of promoting democratic values and combating autocratization, especially within its neighboring regions. Through its European Neighbourhood Policy (ENP) and the Eastern Partnership (EaP), the EU supports democratic transitions and economic development in countries at risk of autocratization (Börzel & van Hüllen, 2014).

One of the EU's key mechanisms for combating autocratization is the use of conditionality—linking economic aid and membership to democratic reforms. Countries like Ukraine, Moldova, and Georgia have been incentivized to adopt democratic reforms in exchange for closer economic and political ties with the EU (Levitsky & Way, 2020). The EU also imposes sanctions on countries where democratic backsliding is particularly severe, as seen in Hungary and Poland, where measures under Article 7 of the EU Treaty have been invoked to address violations of democratic norms.

The EU also funds civil society organizations and independent media, which play a vital role in resisting autocratic tendencies by promoting transparency and accountability (Youngs, 2020). The European Endowment for Democracy (EED) provides direct support to pro-democracy activists in regions where democratic norms are under threat.

3. The Role of International NGOs and Civil Society Organizations

International non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and civil society organizations (CSOs) have become essential players in countering autocratization. Organizations such as Freedom House, Transparency International, and the National Endowment for Democracy (NED) monitor global trends in democracy and autocratization, providing crucial data, analysis, and advocacy.

Furthermore, Freedom House's annual "Freedom in the World" report assesses political freedoms and civil liberties across the globe, raising awareness of autocratic trends and empowering pro-democracy movements (Repucci & Slipowitz, 2023). Within the same context Transparency International addresses the role of corruption in autocratization, advocating for governance reforms that reduce opportunities for the concentration of power.

The NED, a U.S.-funded organization, supports grassroots democracy movements worldwide, providing financial and logistical support to activists, independent media, and political reformers (Carothers, 2021). By supporting local efforts, NGOs can directly confront autocratic regimes without the constraints that often limit intergovernmental organizations.

4. The Alliance for Democracies and the Summit for Democracy

The Alliance for Democracies (AfD) was founded in 2017 by former Danish Prime Minister Anders Fogh Rasmussen to promote and defend democracy globally. The AfD hosts the annual Copenhagen Democracy Summit, which brings together democratic leaders, policymakers, and activists to address the challenges posed by autocratization (Rasmussen, 2019). This platform facilitates dialogue, sharing of best practices, and international coordination among democracies to counter authoritarian trends.

In December 2021, U.S. President Joe Biden convened the Summit for Democracy, a global initiative designed to counter autocratization, promote human rights, and combat corruption (White House, 2021). The summit brings together leaders from governments, civil society, and the private sector to discuss ways to strengthen democratic institutions. The initiative also focuses on digital governance, addressing the role of technology in both enabling and resisting autocratization.

5. The Role of Regional Organizations

Regional organizations such as the Organization of American States (OAS) and the African Union (AU) have developed initiatives to combat autocratization within their member states. The OAS's Inter-American Democratic Charter commits member states to uphold democratic principles and provides mechanisms for collective action in response to democratic backsliding (Piccone, 2017). The OAS has intervened in countries like Venezuela and Nicaragua, where autocratization has threatened regional stability.

The AU, through its African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance, promotes democratic governance and responds to unconstitutional changes in government. The AU has taken a more active role in sanctioning member states that exhibit autocratic tendencies, particularly after military coups or disputed elections (Shaw, 2018).

Challenges and Limitations of International Initiatives

State Sovereignty and Non-Interference

One of the primary challenges facing international initiatives to combat autocratization is the principle of state sovereignty. Many countries resist external efforts to promote democracy, viewing them as infringements on their national sovereignty (Bellamy, 2008). Autocratic leaders often exploit this sentiment, framing international criticism as foreign interference in domestic affairs. As a result, organizations like the UN and EU face significant limitations when attempting to intervene in countries undergoing autocratization.

Geopolitical Considerations and Selectivity

International responses to autocratization are often influenced by geopolitical considerations. Major powers may prioritize strategic interests over democratic principles, leading to selective engagement with autocratizing countries. For example, some countries with close economic or military ties to Western democracies may receive less criticism or intervention despite exhibiting autocratic trends (Gershman & Allen, 2006).

The Rise of Digital Authoritarianism

Autocratic regimes are increasingly using digital technologies to monitor, control, and suppress political opposition. Digital authoritarianism—using surveillance, censorship, and disinformation to maintain power—poses a new challenge for international initiatives aimed at promoting democracy (Kendall-Taylor & Frantz, 2020). Autocratic governments can exploit social media, artificial intelligence, and other technologies to stifle dissent and manipulate public opinion, complicating efforts to promote democratic resilience.

Conclusion

The international community has responded to the global rise of autocratization through various initiatives, involving multilateral organizations, democratic alliances, and civil society. While these efforts have achieved some success in promoting democratic norms and addressing democratic backsliding, challenges such as state sovereignty, geopolitical interests, and the rise of digital authoritarianism complicate the task.

Addressing autocratization will require sustained international cooperation, innovative strategies, and a commitment to supporting local pro-democracy movements. International initiatives must adapt to

the evolving nature of authoritarianism, particularly in the digital age, and balance the promotion of democracy with respect for national sovereignty. By strengthening global alliances and leveraging the power of civil society, the international community can play a crucial role in halting the spread of autocratization and safeguarding democratic governance.

Carlos I. Filho

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