Climate threats may drive rise in authoritarian leadership
As climate disasters become more severe, research suggests the social impact of such crises may lead more countries to favor authoritarian leaders who promise security over democratic values.
L.V. Anderson reports for Grist.
In short:
- A 2022 study found that climate-driven storms in island nations tend to reduce democratic governance, with affected nations becoming more authoritarian on average.
- Psychological studies show people exposed to climate threat information may react by adopting more authoritarian views and negative biases toward out-groups.
- Political scientists suggest that climate change-induced insecurity may drive voters toward leaders who promise stability at the expense of democratic freedoms.
Key quote:
“I think that the appeal of the strongman who promises simple answers to complicated things actually makes a lot of sense.”
— James McCarthy, professor at Clark University
Why this matters:
As climate change worsens, it may also erode democratic norms, prompting voters to seek authoritarian leaders who offer stability amid crisis. Without efforts to address climate impacts equitably, the drift toward authoritarianism may continue, affecting global governance.
Related: Wealthy nations criticized for limiting climate protests despite promoting rights globally
