V-Dem Project
Coverage of V-Dem Project in the Nexus archive.
- Why autocracies get more repressive when opening their economies
The article discusses how autocracies become more repressive when opening their economies, citing the V-Dem Project's finding that 41% of the global population live in autocratizing countries. It references a 'third wave of autocratization' that has pushed democracy back to levels last seen in 1978.
- Strong economies, strongman leaders: how China (and America’s) AI boom could create a new class of kowtowing elites
The article discusses how economic liberalization, once believed to promote democracy, has instead contributed to autocratization in many countries. It references the V-Dem Project's findings that 41% of the global population lives in autocratizing nations and highlights José Kaire's theory that economic reforms empower autocratic elites rather than fostering political freedoms. Examples include Mexico, Malaysia, and Senegal, where liberalization coincided with increased repression.