WASHINGTON, D.C. (May 9, 2025) – The McCain Institute at Arizona State University (ASU) released a report titled, “Addressing the Shrinking Democratic Space in Europe: Lessons and Successes in Combatting Far-Right Authoritarianism,” following an in-person workshop with democracy, civic, and media representatives in Warsaw, Poland, in April 2025.
The report highlights successful intervention tactics and learnings in the fight against rising authoritarianism and democratic backsliding in Georgia, Hungary, Poland, and Slovakia, including increasing media literacy among youth, developing creative get-out-the-vote campaigns, conducting outreach to rural populations, and more.
“The [authoritarian] playbook is unoriginal: dismantle government agencies and oversight bodies (anti-corruption, ombudsperson, inspectors general), limit the rights of marginalized communities and immigrants, restructure education and attack universities, interfere in the judiciary and appointment of judges, enrich donors and oligarchs over competitive processes, pass legislation limiting civil society organizations, block or shut down independent media, and thwart the election process,” the report states. “Democrats need to align as autocrats have, supporting one another to fend off these steps in the playbook. Democracy activists from autocracies can help countries at the beginning of the backsliding process with foresight and scenario planning – to prepare for what’s next.
Click HERE to read the full report.
About the McCain Institute at Arizona State University
The McCain Institute is a nonpartisan organization inspired by Senator John McCain and his family’s dedication to public service. We are part of Arizona State University and based in Washington, D.C. Our programs defend democracy, advance human rights and freedom, and empower character-driven leaders. Our unique power to convene leaders across the global political spectrum enables us to make a real impact on the world’s most pressing challenges. Our goal is action, not talk, and like Senator McCain, we are fighting to create a free, safe, and just world for all.
About Arizona State University
Arizona State University has developed a new model for the American research university, creating an institution that is committed to access, excellence and impact. ASU measures itself by those it includes, not by those it excludes. As the prototype for a New American University, ASU pursues research that contributes to the public good, and ASU assumes major responsibility for the economic, social and cultural vitality of the communities that surround it.