The transformation of a democracy into an authoritarian regime is rarely marked by a single dramatic moment. Instead, it's typically a process with identifiable "points of no return" — moments when key democratic institutions or norms are eroded so thoroughly that a return to democratic (1/13)
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1. (2/13)
Point of No Return: When elections are no longer competitive, transparent, or inclusive — through manipulation, suppression, or outright cancellation.
Examples:
Hitler's consolidation of power post-1933; elections continued but were sham. (3/13)
2. Control or Co-optation of the Judiciary
Point of No Return: When the judiciary no longer acts independently and becomes a tool of the ruling power. (4/13)
Turkey under Erdoğan: purge and restructuring of the judiciary following the 2016 coup attempt.
Hungary under Orbán: systematic weakening of judicial independence.
3. (5/13)
Point of No Return: When independent media is shut down, bought out, or controlled, and alternative information is inaccessible.
Examples:
Nazi Germany's Ministry of Propaganda. (6/13)
4. Outlawing or Neutralizing Opposition
Point of No Return: When political opponents are jailed, exiled, or banned; civil society is dismantled. (7/13)
The blue state should start talking about declaring independence.