We asked critics from authoritarian regimes what they wish they’d known sooner. Here’s what they said

The GuardianTuesday, December 9, 2025 at 10:00:29 AM
We asked critics from authoritarian regimes what they wish they’d known sooner. Here’s what they said
  • Critics from authoritarian regimes in Hungary, El Salvador, and Turkey have shared insights with the U.S. regarding the tactics and strategies employed by authoritarian leaders, emphasizing the importance of vigilance and proactive measures against such regimes. They highlight the admiration expressed by former President Donald Trump for leaders like Viktor Orbán and Nayib Bukele, which raises concerns about the normalization of authoritarianism in U.S. politics.
  • This development is significant as it underscores the potential implications of U.S. foreign policy influenced by authoritarian figures. The critics' experiences serve as a warning about the erosion of democratic values and the risks of aligning with leaders who undermine civil liberties and democratic institutions.
  • The situation reflects broader themes of rising authoritarianism globally, where leaders leverage populism and nationalism to consolidate power. Trump's recent criticisms of European leaders and his controversial actions in Latin America, including threats to cut aid and pardoning a former Honduran president, illustrate a pattern of undermining democratic norms and supporting autocratic governance.
— via World Pulse Now AI Editorial System

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