As the United States grapples with its own democratic challenges, a growing trend in authoritarianism around the world offers a timely warning. In Hungary, Brazil, and the Philippines, would-be autocrats have risen to power, only to be brought down by their own hubris and the resilience of their citizens. Viktor Orbán, Jair Bolsonaro, and Rodrigo Duterte, once hailed as populist heroes, now face mounting opposition and declining popularity. Their stories serve as cautionary tales for America, where the erosion of democratic norms and the rise of extremist ideologies are increasingly worrying signs. In these countries, the downfall of would-be autocrats often began with a gradual erosion of democratic institutions and the manipulation of information. As these leaders consolidated power, they faced growing resistance from civil society, the media, and even within their own ranks. The consequences of their actions, including corruption, human rights abuses, and economic mismanagement, ultimately led to their downfall. As the United States navigates its own democratic challenges, policymakers and citizens would do well to study these examples and learn from the mistakes of others.
The downfalls of would-be autocrats in Hungary, Brazil and the Philippines hold lessons for America
