For some years now, autocratization tendencies have been observed even in supposedly consolidated democracies.  However, it is not so much coups, wars or state collapse that are driving this democratic regression, but rather the actions of elected governments that present themselves as champions of a new, different kind of democracy. They claim to speak for those whose voices are otherwise overheard and who feel poorly represented. Based on this narrative, they undermine the norms and institutions that are supposed to protect liberal democracy. But why does the claim to speak for the real people resonate so much and resonate with segments of the population? Finding answers to this question is the concern in this panel.  In an "Authors meet critics" format, Claudia Ritzi, Manon Westphal and Daniel Ziblatt discuss the book written by Armin Schäfer and Michael Zürn, „Die demokratische Regression. Die politischen Ursachen des autoritären Populismus“ (Democratic Regression. The Political Causes of Authoritarian Populism) (publication year 2021).  In it, the panelists explain from their research perspective how they assess the diagnosis of autocratization and whether, and if so, what their explanation is. If representative democracy were functioning properly, according to the initial thesis for this panel, authoritarian populist parties would not be so successful.

Organized by: Prof. Dr. Armin Schäfer (Westfälische Wilhelms-Universität), Prof. Dr. Michael Zürn (Wissenschaftszentrum für Sozialforschung Berlin)

Chair: Prof. Dr. Armin Schäfer (Westfälische Wilhelms-Universität)

Contributions: Dr. Manon Westphal (Westfälische Wilhelms-Universität), Prof. Dr. Claudia Ritzi (Universität Trier), Prof. Dr. Daniel Ziblatt (Harvard University / WZB)

The event is part of the 28th Scientific Congress of the DVPW on the topic "We have the choice! Politics in times of insecurity and autocratisation" taking place digitally. #dvpw2021. Read the full programme.