Illiberalisaation

Illiberalisaation is the process by which a political system shifts from liberal democratic norms toward illiberal governance. In this framework, formal democratic institutions such as elections may remain, but core liberal features—civil liberties, the rule of law, independent media and judiciary, and political pluralism—are weakened or undermined. The result is often described as an illiberal democracy or competitive authoritarianism, where power operates within a legal framework yet without genuine checks and balances or protected minority rights.

Origins and usage: The concept has become common in political science and journalism to describe governments that win elections while curbing liberal freedoms. The term gained particular attention after Viktor Orbán described Hungary as an “illiberal state” in 2014, prompting extensive discussion about how electoral success can coexist with eroding liberal norms.

Mechanisms: Illiberalisaation can proceed through constitutional or legal changes that concentrate power in the executive, reforms that weaken judicial independence, media consolidation or state-controlled messaging, restrictions on civil society and protests, surveillance and security measures justified by crisis or national unity, and partisan manipulation of electoral rules to entrench governing majorities.

Implications and debate: The process raises concerns about the erosion of the rule of law, minority rights, and political accountability, along with potential economic and institutional instability. International responses vary, with some actors condemning backsliding while others engage pragmatically. Scholars debate how to classify and measure illiberalisaation, and where to draw the line between legitimate political change and democratic decay.