conf. univ. dr. Silviu NATE^

Abstract. Although autocracies have long relied on varying degrees of repression to support their goals, the ease with which today’s authoritarian regimes can acquire this repressive capacity marks a significant departure from the old models of repression used. The Internet has brought diverse ideas and expectations to previously isolated nations, and the attitude in the “information space” through the media and the Internet has turned from a defensive effort into an offensive option designed to erode democratic power. Some autocratic leaders sought hybridized forms of authoritarian government by promoting slight forms of liberalization, combined with ways to stay in power. As autocracies gain longevity, the number of quasi-dictatorial regimes may increase globally as some states face recurring democratic slippages.

Key-words: fragile democracies, digital authoritarianism, artificial intelligence, technology