Democratic Erosion University Course Student Blog

Students enrolled in our course are encouraged to write for the course blog, and to read and comment on posts from students at other participating universities. The blog offers students the opportunity to analyze current events through the lens of the theory and case studies they engage with through the course.

“Unleashed” – Boris Johnson’s Populist Reincarnation

This post explores Boris Johnson’s memoir “Unleashed” through the lens of populism, democratic erosion, and leadership style. It examines how Johnson portrays himself, his role in Brexit, his relationship with political institutions, and his use of populist rhetoric. Drawing on academic and media sources, the post reflects on how Johnson’s personal narrative and political behaviour fit into broader patterns of contemporary populist leadership.

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Prosperity Does Not Equal Democracy: Economic Inequality and Democratic Erosion

America is rich, but the majority of Americans are not. What does this mean for our democracy?

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The Disbandment of Hong Kong’s Democratic Party: An Example of Authoritarian Consolidation

Hong Kong’s Democratic Party disbanding under authoritarian pressure exemplifies how legal tools can be weaponized to erode democracy while maintaining a façade of legitimacy.

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