By Xhabir Deralla
Continued from: A Test of Humanity’s Strength: Conflicts, genocidal wars, and authoritarianism – can the world overcome the darkness? – Civil Today, Dec. 30, 2024
The erosion of democratic values and the rise of authoritarian regimes are inseparable trends. The warning signs have been evident for a long time, yet few noticed – or chose to acknowledge – them. Now, we find ourselves in a situation where concern for the future is not just warranted but urgent. Paradoxically, the erosion of trust in institutions – now spanning generations – has emerged as one of the most powerful catalysts for the rise of authoritarian figures. These leaders construct authoritative personas, fortified by meticulously orchestrated propaganda campaigns designed to polarize societies, instill fear, and identify scapegoats – those accused of threatening identities, livelihoods, homes and families, or societal, racial, religious, or ethnic purity. Their promise is deceptively simple: a strong hand, order, and liberation from the so-called “enemies.”
Rising authoritarian figures and political parties often collaborate with well-established dictatorial regimes, forming a web of mutual support. They exploit technology, economic dependencies, and disinformation to tighten control over communities and entire societies while suppressing opposition and dissent. Methods of silencing include intimidation, threats, smear campaigns, isolation from mainstream media, and, in extreme cases, outright violence or murder. Such tactics not only silence independent thinkers, civil society, and political opponents but also instill fear in others, consolidating power and deterring any societal, political, or legal actions against them.
Too many of the world’s wealthiest individuals remain indifferent to the existential threats facing humanity. Secure in their access to the corridors of power, they often influence policies to prioritize profits over people, disregarding the devastating toll this takes on democracy, human rights, and the global order. In exchange for tax breaks, they turn a blind eye to inequality, and in pursuit of corporate dominance, they fuel instability that endangers peace and prosperity. This reckless pursuit of wealth at the expense of humanity must end. The world’s richest must recognize that their fortunes are inextricably tied to the survival of civilization. If not for the sake of humanity, they must act for the sake of their own future and that of their businesses.
AUTHORITARIAN STATES: Exploiting global and regional influence to destabilize democracies
Authoritarian states like Russia, China, and others are exploiting their global influence to destabilize democracies, deepening polarization and exacerbating societal fragmentation. Similarly, smaller authoritarian states, such as Hungary in Central Europe and Serbia in the Balkans, are exerting their power regionally, influencing neighboring countries and undermining democratic norms within their spheres of influence. These regimes exploit a plethora of tactics, including hybrid warfare operations, economic dependencies, advanced technology, and expansive disinformation networks to weaken the stability and security of targeted countries and the foundations of democratic governance across the world. By amplifying divisive narratives, fear and hate, and instilling mistrust in institutions, they create conditions for authoritarian ideologies to take root, both within their borders and abroad.
Russia’s hybrid warfare tactics are a prime example of these efforts. Through propaganda campaigns, cyberattacks, and election interference, Russia disrupts democratic processes while spreading disinformation and false narratives that exacerbate social and political tensions. Troll farms, such as the infamous (and now inactive) Internet Research Agency (IRA)[1], create divisive content aimed at exploiting and intensifying existing societal and political weaknesses in targeted countries. This, however, represents just a small component of a far-reaching and systematic hybrid warfare strategy. Several Russian government agencies—including the Federal Security Service (FSB), Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR), Main Intelligence Directorate (GRU), and Ministry of Defense[2] —conduct long-term cyber operations targeting critical infrastructure in the West, seeking to disrupt and weaken democratic states.
Meanwhile, China uses its Belt and Road Initiative and debt diplomacy to entangle nations economically. Among its tactics is the export of surveillance technologies, such as facial recognition systems, which are subsequently weaponized to stifle dissent and monitor populations. Such is the case with Serbia, where 42 local governments installed Chinese Huawei’s facial recognition cameras, including 8,000 cameras in the Serbian capital of Belgrade only[3].
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE: The dangerous tool in the authoritarian playbooks
The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence has become an utterly dangerous tool in these authoritarian playbooks. It is already acknowledged that China is one of the most advanced countries in the world that uses AI for military purposes. The “intelligent warfare” as a core component of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army’s modernization efforts[4]. AI-powered algorithms analyze vast datasets to identify vulnerabilities within target societies, enabling hyper-targeted propaganda and the spread of disinformation and false narratives on social media platforms.
Deepfake technology, for instance, allows the creation of fabricated videos or audio clips that undermine trust in public figures, institutions, and even reality itself.
China’s AI-driven total surveillance apparatus[5], epitomized by its social credit system[6], not only maintains tight domestic control, but also serves as a chilling blueprint for authoritarian governance worldwide. This system combines extensive data collection, facial recognition, and AI analytics to monitor and manipulate citizen behavior, creating a manipulative feeling of safety, while controlling and stifling opposition. Beyond its borders, China has become the leading exporter of facial recognition and surveillance technology, providing tools to countries with authoritarian regimes[7]. These technologies enable governments to tighten their grip on power, suppress freedom of speech, and undermine human rights, thereby extending the reach of authoritarian control on a global scale.
ANTIDEMOCRATIC STRATEGIC OPERATIONS: A coordinated and multifaceted assault on democracy
Antidemocratic operations are not confined to any single country or region; they form part of a broader, coordinated, and multifaceted strategic assault on democratic systems. By intensifying polarization, authoritarian regimes weaken the societal cohesion that is vital for effective and democratic governance. Their disinformation campaigns exploit the very freedoms that democracies hold dear – such as open internet access and free speech – to attack the very systems and institutions designed to protect these rights. The resulting erosion of trust in media, elections, and the judicial system leaves democracies vulnerable to manipulation, fueling a self-perpetuating cycle of instability.
Moreover, the global interconnectedness of technology amplifies the reach of these authoritarian tactics. Social media platforms, often governed by algorithms that prioritize engagement over truth[8], become amplifiers of disinformation, and social and political polarization. Even when exposed, the sheer volume and sophistication of these campaigns overwhelm fact-checking and counter-narrative efforts.
KEY QUESTION: Is the world prepared to reverse the downward trends?
These challenges pose a tremendous threat to the world, even before considering the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine, the conflicts in the Middle East, and numerous other wars across the globe. Does the world have the will, capacity, and vision to reverse these grim trends?
Certainly, it does – but urgent action is required.
Democratic institutions and governments must adapt swiftly to address these complex threats. Strengthening institutional resilience, investing in digital and media literacy, and implementing robust regulations to prevent the misuse of AI technologies are critical priorities. It goes without saying that the world urgently needs a coordinated response to tackle the authoritarian exploitation of AI, economic dependencies, hybrid warfare, and disinformation. If we don’t act now, these threats will keep chipping away at democratic systems, destabilizing the global order, and pushing it towards a total collapse.
Too many of the world’s wealthiest individuals remain indifferent to the existential threats facing humanity. Secure in their access to the corridors of power, they often influence policies to prioritize profits over people, disregarding the devastating toll this takes on democracy, human rights, and the global order. In exchange for tax breaks, they turn a blind eye to inequality, and in pursuit of corporate dominance, they fuel instability that endangers peace and prosperity. This reckless pursuit of wealth at the expense of humanity must end. The world’s richest must recognize that their fortunes are inextricably tied to the survival of civilization. If not for the sake of humanity, they must act for the sake of their own future and that of their businesses.
The implications of everything discussed here are unquestionably clear. The world has increasingly become a place where severe human rights abuses and immense human suffering are a daily reality. Freedom of speech, freedom of peaceful assembly, and political participation are being subdued – not only by the brute force of repressive regimes – but also through sophisticated mechanisms of manipulation, surveillance, control, and silent coercion wielded by powerful centers of influence. Far-right political parties, often directly or indirectly aligned with – and even funded by – militant authoritarian regimes such as Russia and China, exploit declining public trust in institutions, polarization, hate, and economic and political instability to garner popular support.
It’s easy to suggest that strengthening democratic institutions and civil society, and independent media, will enhance societal resilience against these threats. Yet, these approaches, validated by historical experience, require not only unwavering commitment, but also the courage to act decisively and the consistency to implement them across all levels of society, from government institutions to grassroots movements, if they are to be truly effective. Expanding initiatives like the #DefendingDemocracy initiative to enhance defense of democracy and human rights, foster media literacy, counter disinformation, and build resilient communities, is just one of many actions that must be taken and fully supported. This also involves mobilizing international coalitions to impose sanctions on human rights violators and create safe havens for dissidents.
URGENT STEPS, VISIONS: Stop human suffering!
The world of today is witnessing destruction and human suffering on an unprecedented scale. Democratic nations appear to lack a coherent response to the rise of authoritarianism within their own borders, and they seem to lack the resolve and courage to put an end to aggressions like Russia’s war against Ukraine, or to stop the horrific suffering of Palestinian civilians in Gaza amidst the Israeli conflict with Hamas. From wars and migration crises to systemic human rights violations, the world faces unparalleled destruction, with women, children, and minorities enduring the worst of the devastation. Human suffering must stop! Now!
The most urgent and short-term task of the international bodies and organizations is to accelerate humanitarian aid to war zones and crisis regions, ensuring food security, healthcare, and shelter. However, the world needs to return to the international laws and enhance mechanisms to stop and sanction perpetrators responsible for war crimes and atrocities. The democratic institutions need to urgently invest in preserving democracy, strengthen civil society and independent media, and advancing technology and innovation to predict and respond to crises more effectively.
While this is far easier said than done, it demands not only clear declarations, but also an unwavering commitment to action from global leaders and institutions. This is particularly critical in times when authoritarianism is rising and democratic institutions are under threat. The preservation of democracy and the protection of fundamental human rights must be prioritized – and that requires collective resolve and concrete steps from all corners of the international community. Not stabilitocracy[9] – appeasement of authoritarian leaders in turbulent regions under the guise of false stability – but democracy and human rights above all.
Western democracies must understand that inaction will only embolden authoritarian regimes. Russian and Chinese expansionism – manifested through military aggression, economic coercion, hybrid warfare, and disinformation campaigns – demands a coordinated and decisive response. Equally critical is recognizing that authoritarian regimes actively support and fund far-right and extremist groups within Western democracies, undermining democratic institutions and threatening the very foundation of democracy itself. That has to be stopped – it is high time for a comprehensive strategy to dismantle such links[10].
Ultimately, the level of resilience of democratic societies will determine their ability to withstand and recover from these threats. Investing in education, media literacy, and civic engagement is essential to empowering citizens to resist authoritarian narratives and uphold democratic values. While this may sound like an idealistic notion from an NGO handbook, it remains a fundamental area of action. Promoting democratic principles, solidarity, inclusion, and shared responsibility is vital to building a robust societal infrastructure capable of withstanding both physical and digital threats.
However, civil society must also undergo reform, stepping out of the comfort zone of excessive and useless academism. Likewise, donor policies and practices must be reimagined to address the pressing and urgent needs of today’s rapidly changing world.
THE LUXURY OF INACTION: The ideals of human dignity, freedom, and justice will fade, replaced by the cold, ruthless machinery of oppression
The world stands on the brink of devastation, teetering on the edge of tyranny and despair. The signs are all around us – flashing like thunder in the night – but too many remain indifferent or inactive, weakened by disillusionment, or paralyzed by fear. If we fail to act decisively now, the flames of authoritarianism will consume what remains of our fragile democracies, leaving behind only ash and silence. The ideals of human dignity, freedom, and justice will fade, replaced by the cold, ruthless machinery of oppression.
This is no distant anticipation. It is a reality unfolding before our very eyes; a reality driven by the ambition of dictators and the apathy of those who should stand against them. The cost of inaction is clear: global conflict, shattered lives, and a descent into chaos that will spare no one.
History teaches that darkness, no matter how unescapable it may seem, can be resisted. It begins with unyielding resolve – within communities, nations, and the collective force of humanity. Strengthening societal resilience, standing firm against aggression, and demanding accountability from those who exploit and destroy democracies are not just strategies – they are imperatives for survival.
The question is no longer whether we can afford to fight for democracy and human rights, but whether we can afford not to. The world cannot and will not survive without democracy. That is certain now. The stakes are nothing less than the future of civilization itself. We are the last line of defense, and time is running out.
[1] Craig Silverman and Jeff Kao, Infamous Russian Troll Farm Appears to Be Source of Anti-Ukraine Propaganda, March 11, 2022, ProPublica, https://www.propublica.org/article/infamous-russian-troll-farm-appears-to-be-source-of-anti-ukraine-propaganda
[2] CISA, Russian State-Sponsored and Criminal Cyber Threats to Critical Infrastructure, May 9, 2022, https://www.cisa.gov/news-events/cybersecurity-advisories/aa22-110a
[3] Radio Free Europe, Radio Liberty, Balkan Service, Natalija Jovanovic, How Serbia Became Blanketed In Chinese-Made Surveillance Cameras, July 30, 2023, https://www.rferl.org/a/serbia-surveillance-cameras-china/32526515.html
[4] Oxfor Analytica, China will continue to advance its military AI, Nov. 11, 2024, https://www.oxan.com/insights/china-will-continue-to-advance-its-military-ai/
[5] Zeyi Yangarchive, The Chinese surveillance state proves that the idea of privacy is more “malleable” than you’d expect, MIT Technology Review, Oct. 10, 2022, https://www.technologyreview.com/2022/10/10/1060982/china-pandemic-cameras-surveillance-state-book/
[6] The University of Chicago, The Journal of Politics, Volume 84, Number 4, Oct. 2022, Information Control and Public Support for Social Credit Systems in China, https://www.journals.uchicago.edu/doi/full/10.1086/718358
[7] Martin Beraja, David Y. Yang, and Noam Yuchtman, China Is Exporting Its AI Surveillance State, Project Syndicate, Jul 24, 2024, https://www.project-syndicate.org/commentary/china-exports-ai-surveillance-technology-associated-with-autocratization-by-martin-beraja-et-al-2024-07
[8] IPSOS, Digital extremism: How algorithms feed the politics polarization, Oct. 17, 2023, https://www.ipsos.com/en/flair-collection/digital-extremism-how-algorithms-feed-politics-polarisation
[9] Florian Bieber, What is a stabilitocracy?, BiEPAG, May 5, 2017, https://www.biepag.eu/blog/what-is-a-stabilitocracy
[10] Jamie Shea, Right-wing radicalism: time for an EU strategy, Friends of Europe, Apr. 28, 2023, https://www.friendsofeurope.org/insights/right-wing-radicalism-time-for-an-eu-strategy/
