Hard authoritarianism

Definition

Hard authoritarianism is a form of governance where power is concentrated in the hands of a single leader or a small elite group, and political freedoms and civil liberties are significantly restricted. This regime type employs strict control over social, economic, and political life often through coercion or force.

Related terms

Soft Authoritarianism: A governance model where political control is maintained by limiting political pluralism and suppressing opposition but is less overtly repressive than hard authoritarianism.

Totalitarianism:

An extreme form of authoritarian government where the state seeks to control every aspect of public and private life through coercive measures.

Civil Liberties:

The fundamental rights and freedoms protected from infringement by the government, such as freedom of speech and religion, which are often suppressed under hard authoritarian regimes.