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A theory of autocratic transition by government leaders: prerequisites to self-enforcing democracy

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  • Thomas Apolte

    (University of Münster)

Abstract

This paper aims at contributing to a better understanding of the conditions of self-enforcing democracy by analyzing the recent wave of autocratic transitions. Based on a game-theoretic framework, we work out the conditions under which governments may induce the diverse public authorities to coordinate on extra-constitutional activities, eventually transforming the politico-institutional setting into one of autocratic rule. We find three empirically testable characteristics that promote this coordination process, namely: populism and public support, corruption, and a lack in the separation of powers. By contrast, low degrees of corruption and strongly separated powers can be viewed as prerequisites to self-enforcing democracy.

Suggested Citation

  • Thomas Apolte, 2022. "A theory of autocratic transition by government leaders: prerequisites to self-enforcing democracy," Economics of Governance, Springer, vol. 23(2), pages 161-189, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:ecogov:v:23:y:2022:i:2:d:10.1007_s10101-022-00277-y
    DOI: 10.1007/s10101-022-00277-y
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    Cited by:

    1. Apolte, Thomas, 2023. "To Democratize or not to Democratize? The Sufficient Condition for Democratization," MPRA Paper 116028, University Library of Munich, Germany.

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Self-enforcing democracy; Political regimes; Autocratic transition;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • D02 - Microeconomics - - General - - - Institutions: Design, Formation, Operations, and Impact
    • D72 - Microeconomics - - Analysis of Collective Decision-Making - - - Political Processes: Rent-seeking, Lobbying, Elections, Legislatures, and Voting Behavior
    • D74 - Microeconomics - - Analysis of Collective Decision-Making - - - Conflict; Conflict Resolution; Alliances; Revolutions
    • P48 - Political Economy and Comparative Economic Systems - - Other Economic Systems - - - Legal Institutions; Property Rights; Natural Resources; Energy; Environment; Regional Studies

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