Fact Check: "Resistance movements are rising up against authoritarianism!"
What We Know
Resistance movements have indeed been gaining momentum globally as a response to rising authoritarianism. According to a New York Times essay by Steven Levitsky, Lucan Way, and Daniel Ziblatt, the United States is experiencing a form of competitive authoritarianism, where elections occur but dissent is heavily suppressed. They emphasize the importance of civic engagement and collective action in combating authoritarian regimes. Historical examples of successful pro-democracy movements include the U.S. civil rights movement, the Polish Solidarity movement, and the anti-apartheid struggle in South Africa.
Recent events further illustrate this trend. In Brazil, mass mobilization led to the electoral defeat of President Jair Bolsonaro, who attempted to undermine democracy through constitutional violations. Similarly, in South Korea, widespread protests resulted in the impeachment of President Yoon Suk Yeol. These movements were characterized by broad participation across various societal sectors, demonstrating that collective action is crucial for challenging authoritarianism (Fostering a Fourth Democratic Wave).
Analysis
The evidence supporting the claim that resistance movements are rising against authoritarianism is robust. The authors of the New York Times essay argue that collective action has historically been one of the most effective means of countering autocratic regimes. They cite research indicating that the probability of halting democratic backsliding is significantly higher when civil resistance movements are involved, compared to relying solely on institutional channels like elections (source-1).
Moreover, the Fostering a Fourth Democratic Wave report highlights the effectiveness of civil resistance movements, which utilize nonviolent tactics such as strikes and protests. This report underscores the necessity of international support for these movements, as they are pivotal in reversing the trend of democratic recession witnessed over the past years.
However, it is essential to consider the challenges these movements face. Authoritarian regimes often employ divide-and-rule tactics, which can hinder collective action. Despite these obstacles, historical and recent examples demonstrate that sustained mass participation can lead to significant political change (source-1).
The reliability of the sources used in this analysis is high. The New York Times is a reputable publication known for its journalistic integrity, while the Atlantic Council and the International Center on Nonviolent Conflict are respected organizations focused on democratic governance and civil resistance.
Conclusion
The claim that "resistance movements are rising up against authoritarianism" is True. The evidence presented shows a clear pattern of increased civic engagement and successful collective action against authoritarian regimes globally. Historical precedents and recent events support the assertion that organized resistance is a powerful tool in the fight for democracy.
Sources
- Big Tents and Collective Action Can Defeat Authoritarianism
- Fostering a Fourth Democratic Wave: A playbook for countering the authoritarian threat
- 148 Days and Counting: Georgia's Battle Against Authoritarianism
- How Democracies Defend Themselves Against Authoritarianism
- Protests in 2023: Widespread Citizen Anger Continues, With Sources Multiplying
- 5 movements that mobilized you in 2023
