WHY DEMOCRACIES MUST LEARN FROM AUTOCRACIES TO WIN
WHY DEMOCRACIES MUST LEARN FROM AUTOCRACIES TO WIN
Author(s): Maryna KarlevitsSubject(s): Governance, Electoral systems, Geopolitics
Published by: PIC Promotion of the Intercultural Cooperation
Keywords: democracies; autocracies; reactive governance; consensus-building; citizen communication; narrative shaping; influence operations; perceived strength; strategic misperception; policy reforms; Europe;
Summary/Abstract: The real danger for democracies today is not based on autocracies becoming stronger, but from their reactive posture, slow consensus-building, and failure to communicate clearly and timely with their citizens. Autocracies exploit these weaknesses by shaping narratives and spreading their influence, creating an appearance of greater strength and unity. Yet the core issue is not that autocratic regimes are inherently more powerful or superior, but that democracies often underestimate their adversaries’ resolve, misinterpret their intentions, and fail to fully leverage their own strengths to counter them effectively. This article examines the tools available, necessary reforms, policy shifts, and mindset changes Europe must adopt to confront these challenges.
Journal: Ukraine Analytica
- Issue Year: 11/2025
- Issue No: 03 (38)
- Page Range: 44-50
- Page Count: 7
- Language: English
