Global authoritarianism and the struggle for democracy
Summary
As democracy retreats globally, authoritarian power is no longer confined within borders. This course explores how non-democratic regimes cooperate, repress, and face resistance across transnational and international arenas.
About
This course explores how authoritarian regimes operate, cooperate, and are challenged in today’s international system. Through selected case studies from different regions, students examine key features of contemporary global authoritarianism, including the growing use of transnational repression — practices through which regime critics abroad are monitored, harassed, or silenced.
With a particular focus on local actors, the course also analyzes the strategies and impact of transnational activism. Combining theoretical perspectives with empirical examples, the course highlights the implications of global authoritarianism for democracy, human rights, and international relations. It is especially relevant for students interested in power, resistance, and the challenges facing global political orders.
Teaching
Teaching and learning activities include lectures, seminars (including compulsory literature seminars), quizzes administered via the university’s learning platform, and student-led group projects.
Prerequisites and selection
Entry requirements
Entry to the course requires 20 credits of completed second cycle courses in the field of global studies, social sciences or equivalent.
Selection
Selection is based upon the number of credits from previous university studies, maximum 165 credits.
After graduation
After completing the course, students will be well prepared for further studies and research in the rapidly growing field of global and transnational authoritarianism. The analytical skills and empirical insights developed in the course are also highly relevant for careers in the public sector, international organizations, and civil society, where understanding and responding to democratic backsliding, authoritarian influence, and transnational repression is becoming increasingly important.
Facilities
The teaching facilities of the School of Global Studies are located in central Gothenburg. Most classes are held in the historic building of Annedalsseminariet, which faces a beautiful English garden. Our locales are well-equipped with learning technology and we offer teaching in gallery-seated lecture halls and smaller rooms for seminars or group sessions. We also have group rooms and study places that you may use on both weekdays and weekends. Annedalsseminariet is accessible with an elevator, orientation signs in Braille, a ramp at the entrance door, accessible WC, and automatic door openers. Tram and bus stops are nearby. The Social Sciences Library, where you find your course literature, is within a 10-minute walk, and in the surrounding areas, Linnéstaden and Haga, there are plenty of cafés and vibrant student life.
