For decades, centrist parties ruled the (Western) world. But that time is long gone. While right-wing governments are diligently translating their dystopian fantasies into action, moderates are clinging to a business-as-usual approach—and to the rather conservative instinct that “the left” must be kept at bay. For sociologist and activist Nika Kovač, this can mean only one thing: progressives have to finally deliver. They must build movements, overcome status-quo politics, and hold the centrist establishment to account. For Kovač, that means working harder, being kinder, and taking a page from the authoritarian playbook: set the bar as high as possible—and compromise later.

Quoted in this episode: Charles Dickens (big shout-out!)

Mentioned in this episode: Zoran Mamdani, Abdul El-Sayed, My Voice My Choice (movement), 8th of March Institute (NGO)

Music by sam_o.b
Artwork by The Aliens

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If the second term of the Donald Trump administration has shown anything so far, it’s that democratic institutions and norms aren’t self-evident. They can be reshaped, undermined, and even destroyed if a government is determined to do so. Hungarian sociologist and former politician Gábor Scheiring learned this lesson as early as 2010. As a member of the oppostion party “Politics Can Be Different” he watched strongman Viktor Orbán take office—and then methodically turn Hungary into an autocracy.

Quoted in this episode: Dietrich Rueschemeyer, Kim Lane Scheppele, Evelyne Huber Stephens

Mentioned in this episode: The Rule of Law and the Frankenstate (essay), Capitalist Development and Democracy (book)

Music by sam_o.b
Artwork by The Aliens

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Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the West has found itself plunged back into its Cold War mindset: you're either with it or against it, you either fight for democracy or stand with autocracy. However, in Africa, South America, and Asia, governments are becoming increasingly fed up with following Washington’s and Brussels’ lead. Does this mean the Global South stands by Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping? According to Professor of Global Governance Rita Kiki Edozie, the answer is more complex than the West is willing to admit.

Quoted in this episode: Shada Islam, Dhruva Jaishankar, Maropene Ramokgopa, Dan Smith, Immanuel Wallerstein

Mentioned in this episode: Shifting Powers – NATO and the Global South (documentary), Global Eyes (panel discussion)

Music by sam_o.b
Artwork by The Aliens

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