Research Document
Fear, Grievance, and the Other: How Authoritarian Populist Politics Thrive in Contemporary Democracies
This research guide helps people understand how certain political movements use fear and division to gain power in democratic countries. It explains how these movements combine populist ideas with authoritarian tactics to influence voters and weaken democratic institutions. The guide offers tools and strategies for civic leaders working to strengthen democracy and build inclusive communities.
35 pages|1.7 MB|March 6, 2026
Key Takeaways
1
Authoritarian populist movements combine populist rhetoric with authoritarian tactics to gain power in democratic societies
2
These movements create strong in-group identity by targeting 'Others' defined by race, ethnicity, religion, or other characteristics
3
They exploit fear of change and anti-establishment sentiment while paradoxically undermining democratic institutions
4
The framework helps civic actors, organizers, and policymakers develop strategies to counter antidemocratic movements
5
Unlike traditional authoritarian regimes, these movements operate within democratic contexts while eroding democratic norms
6
Understanding these tactics can help communities build belonging-centered approaches to democracy
Keywords|AuthoritarianPopulistpoliticsOther and Belonging InstituteMariam Juan-Torres GonzalezDemocracy and Belonging Forumdemocracycivic engagementpolitical sciencecommunity organizingsocial justiceresearchpolicy analysisbelonging
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