The Global Rise of Authoritarians: Here's Their Playbook

Sep 2, 2025 | Democratic backsliding is when the norms of democracy start to dissolve and the institutions of democracy — the civil service, the courts, the press and the universities come under attack from the regime.

There is a linked movement attacking democracy worldwide. These forces are working together and they're going on the offensive.

In Zeteo’s first video explainer, Zeteo producer Melanie Riehl and Zeteo contributor Jason Stanley break down the global rise of authoritarianism, connect the fascist dots between East and West and explain how Trump is taking notes to destroy American democracy.

Freedom across the world has declined for the 19th consecutive year, impacting more than 40% of the global population. “The rule of law is being taken down and when the rule of law is being taken down, you can no longer trust the economic system. You can no longer trust the structure that keeps the country stable,” says Stanley.