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Michael J. Tyler
- February 24, 2025
In recent years, the world has witnessed a significant shift towards authoritarian governance, with major powers such as Russia, China, North Korea, and even the United States demonstrating increasingly autocratic tendencies. This global trend has profound implications for liberal democracies such as Australia and New Zealand, which now find themselves navigating an international landscape where democratic values are under threat.
The Authoritarian Surge
Authoritarianism has become more entrenched in several key nations, reshaping global power dynamics. Russia, under Vladimir Putin, has tightened its grip on political dissent, expanded its territorial ambitions, and curtailed press freedoms. China, governed by Xi Jinping, has intensified its control over society through digital surveillance, suppression of human rights, and aggressive foreign policy strategies. North Korea remains a closed dictatorship, where the state exerts absolute control over its citizens. The United States, once considered a bastion of democracy, has shown alarming signs of democratic decline, with growing political polarization, executive overreach, and an erosion of judicial independence.
The Threat to Liberal Democracies
For nations like Australia and New Zealand, the rise of authoritarianism poses significant risks. Traditionally reliant on stable international alliances and democratic norms, both countries now face increasing pressure from authoritarian states seeking to expand their influence.
- Economic Dependence and Coercion
Australia and New Zealand have deep economic ties with China, their largest trading partner. However, China has demonstrated its willingness to use economic leverage to exert political influence, as seen in its trade restrictions on Australian exports following diplomatic disagreements. If authoritarian powers continue to consolidate control over global markets, liberal democracies may face increased economic coercion. - Geopolitical Instability and Security Concerns
The growing assertiveness of authoritarian states in the Indo-Pacific region presents security challenges. China’s military expansion in the South China Sea and Russia’s aggressive actions in Eastern Europe signal a shift towards a more confrontational international order. Australia and New Zealand, as allies of Western democracies, may find themselves caught between defending democratic values and avoiding conflict with authoritarian superpowers. - Erosion of Democratic Norms
The spread of authoritarian governance creates a ripple effect, undermining democratic institutions worldwide. As authoritarian regimes propagate disinformation and suppress dissent, the credibility of democratic governance is weakened. Australia and New Zealand must remain vigilant in safeguarding free speech, press independence, and the rule of law against external and internal threats. - The Challenge of the United States’ Declining Democracy
Historically, the United States has been a key ally in promoting democratic values. However, increasing political dysfunction, challenges to electoral integrity, and an inward-looking foreign policy have raised concerns about America’s reliability as a global leader. If the U.S. continues down an authoritarian path, Australia and New Zealand may need to reassess their strategic alliances and seek new partnerships to uphold democratic principles.
Conclusion
The global shift towards authoritarianism presents a critical challenge for liberal democracies like Australia and New Zealand. Economic coercion, geopolitical instability, and the erosion of democratic norms threaten their political and social fabric. To counter these risks, both nations must reinforce their democratic institutions, diversify economic partnerships, and strengthen regional alliances. By doing so, they can resist the encroachment of authoritarian influence and remain beacons of democracy in an increasingly autocratic world.
Michael J. Tyler
