ABSTRACT
Can liberal forces resist the emergence of illiberal regimes or delay their consolidation of power? What are the weaknesses of illiberal regimes? This chapter argues that illiberal regimes are defined by the gradual suppression of democratic rights and subordination of a preexistent autonomous civil society to the state. In order to achieve their goals, illiberal leaders must gain control of the government, capture autonomous state institutions, and subdue an independent civil society. Each task presents illiberal leaders with distinctive challenges and provides liberal opponents unique opportunities to resist. Once these tasks are completed, the illiberal regime morphs into fully-fledged authoritarian rule. However, illiberal actors are not always able or willing to create an authoritarian regime. Liberal actors can find spaces of resistance and exploit the regime’s weaknesses.
