Freedom Under Siege: The Rise of Authoritarian Democracy

Freedom Under Siege: The Rise of Authoritarian Democracy

October 3, 2024

I have begun studying Vrij Nederland issue 08 of 2024, which is a special edition on the theme of freedom, and consequently, democracy. It’s striking because a few months ago, I published Dissent Is Democracy, a collection of my writings spanning over half a year on democracy and freedom (Goede, Dissent is Democracy, 2024). Vrij Nederland confirms that democracy is under threat worldwide, with a noticeable shift to the right.

Now, the danger to freedom and democracy certainly does not come solely from the right, but I haven’t yet read the entire magazine. Carel Peeters introduces the term "decisionism." This refers to an authoritarian democracy where the leader makes decisions simply because they are the leader. And the fact that rational people choose such leaders. So far, that is Peeters. We have indeed seen this around us, particularly in Venezuela and El Salvador, and increasingly, our governance is characterized by authoritarian democracy.

This is likely due to the uncertainty during the transition to a new era, and people are unwilling to take responsibility. However, in nine out of ten cases, this does not end well. Therefore, people should take responsibility for their actions.

Miguel Goede