autoritaria

Autoritaria is the feminine form of the adjective used in Spanish and Portuguese to describe political systems, regimes, or governing styles characterized by centralized power and limited political pluralism. In English, the corresponding term is authoritarian; "autoritaria" typically modifies feminine nouns such as "regime" or "gobierno."

Common features of autoritaria governance include a centralized executive, restricted or manipulated elections, and suppression of dissent. Civil liberties and independent media are often constrained, and the security apparatus plays a major role in enforcing conformity. Judicial and legislative institutions may exist but operate under top-down control, with decisions ultimately directed by the ruler or ruling group.

Autoritaria regimes may maintain a façade of legality through formal institutions, yet political competition is constrained and opposition is limited or banned. They may allow some economic freedom or cultural life, but political life remains tightly regulated. Succession is typically controlled to preserve continuity of power.

Historians and political scientists distinguish autoritaria from totalitarian systems, noting that authoritarian regimes prioritize order and stability over a comprehensive ideological mobilization. The term also appears in analyses of contemporary politics to describe governments with strong leaders and limited civil society influence, even when elections occur.