Scholars Warn of ‍global‍ Slide Toward Autocracy, Return of Fascism

Updated June 14, 2025
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A group of over 400 scholars is raising ⁢alarms about what they describe as a rapid⁤ global shift toward
autocracy. They assert this‍ trend extends beyond the United States, citing examples of democratic backsliding
⁣and authoritarian tactics worldwide.

The⁤ scholars point to several nations ⁣as evidence of this trend.⁢ They say ‍Israel has seized humanitarian
⁢ ⁤flotillas, while Palestinians in ⁤Gaza face dire conditions. Hungary ‍is cited for its restrictions on press
⁢ freedom and civil rights.‍ India is criticized for rising violence against religious minorities and suppression
of dissent. El Salvador’s president is accused of defying constitutional norms, and Turkey’s leader is
alleged to be undermining⁢ the judiciary and media while jailing political opponents.

In the U.S., the scholars note ⁣immigration raids and the deployment of National Guard troops against
protesters, drawing parallels⁣ to past events.

History offers a⁢ powerful warning

Drawing ⁢lessons from history, the scholars reference Benedetto⁤ Croce’s 1925 “Letter of the Anti-Fascist
‍ Intellectuals,” which urged resistance against⁣ Mussolini’s regime. They argue‍ that silence in the face of
⁣ tyranny is a form of surrender.

Inspired by this legacy,⁢ the scholars have issued “A Renewed Open Letter Against the Return of Fascism,”
⁢ emphasizing the ⁣importance⁢ of speaking out against authoritarianism. They contend that Italy’s ‍past serves as
‍ a warning and a call to action.

the letter emerged in response to events in early 2025, when authoritarian tactics⁢ were allegedly deployed in
the U.S. ⁤and elsewhere.The scholars criticize institutions that they say ⁣capitulated or sought accommodation
‍ with power,‍ clinging to the illusion that silence might spare them.

The scholars reject compromise, arguing that authoritarianism seeks to accumulate power, not negotiate with
⁢ ⁣ the opposition.⁣ They assert that compliance ultimately leads to complicity.

Instead,they call for clear condemnation of political aggression,identifying fascist traits in ‍the current
authoritarian wave. These traits include disdain for pluralism, a focus on leadership and order, disregard for
⁤ the rule of law, and aversion to accountability.

We must not sleepwalk ⁢towards the collapse of democracy

The scholars emphasize their commitment to⁣ democracy,including the rule of law,an independent judiciary⁢ and
press,and the dignity of every human being. they warn against complacency, stating that the world is
“sleepwalking towards the collapse of democracy.”

they urge people⁢ to recognise and reject actions such as abducting civilians, undermining legislatures,
disregarding human rights law, and eroding judicial independence.they caution that tyrants often⁢ consolidate
⁣ power by mocking intellectuals before escalating to violence.

Despite the ⁣challenges, the scholars express optimism‍ that fascism can be defeated if its signs are
⁢ acknowledged and confronted.

They acknowledge that silence ⁣often‍ stems from fear, but they argue that resistance is not ⁣futile. They
emphasize ‍that authoritarianism spreads through silenced voices and that history demonstrates the power of ⁤bold
⁤ ⁤ and united mobilization.

The scholars conclude ⁢by stating that their warning about the return of fascism is not hyperbole but a precise
assessment ⁣based on their expertise. They urge immediate action to stop it.

What’s next

The scholars ⁢hope their letter will spur greater awareness and action to defend democratic⁢ institutions and
values worldwide. They encourage individuals and organizations to resist authoritarian tendencies and speak out
against injustice.