Military dictatorships

Definition

Military dictatorships are authoritarian regimes where the military exerts significant control over the government, often led by a single military leader or junta. These regimes typically arise during times of political instability and are characterized by the suspension of civil liberties, suppression of dissent, and use of force to maintain order. The impact of military dictatorships on crime, violence, and citizen security is profound, as these governments often prioritize stability over human rights, leading to a culture of fear and repression.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Military dictatorships have frequently emerged in Latin America during the 20th century, often following coups that deposed democratically elected governments.
2. These regimes commonly justify their existence by claiming to restore order and stability amidst chaos, but often lead to increased human rights abuses.
3. Political repression is a hallmark of military dictatorships, with dissenters often facing imprisonment, torture, or even execution to suppress opposition.
4. The presence of a military dictatorship can exacerbate crime and violence as state-sanctioned forces may engage in violent acts against citizens while undermining law enforcement.
5. Transitions away from military dictatorship can be turbulent, leading to civil conflict or challenges in establishing democratic governance once again.

Review Questions

• How do military dictatorships typically justify their rise to power and the methods they use to maintain control?
  • Military dictatorships often justify their rise to power by claiming a need to restore order during periods of political chaos or instability. They maintain control through the suppression of civil liberties, using propaganda to present themselves as protectors of national security. Methods include censorship, political repression, and intimidation tactics against dissenters, creating an environment where fear stifles opposition and promotes compliance.
• In what ways do military dictatorships impact crime and violence in society, especially regarding citizen security?
  • Military dictatorships can significantly impact crime and violence by shifting the focus from protecting citizen security to maintaining regime stability. State forces may perpetrate violence against civilians under the guise of enforcing order, while legal and judicial systems are often weakened or manipulated. This can lead to increased criminal activity as normal law enforcement operations are disrupted, leaving citizens vulnerable to both state violence and crime.
• Evaluate the long-term consequences of military dictatorships on political development and civil society in affected countries.
  • The long-term consequences of military dictatorships can be detrimental to political development and civil society. These regimes often leave behind weakened institutions and a culture of fear that inhibits democratic engagement. After a transition to democracy, countries may struggle with legacies of human rights abuses and institutional corruption, which can hinder effective governance and social cohesion. Additionally, societal divisions may be exacerbated by years of repression, complicating efforts toward reconciliation and rebuilding trust in political systems.

Related terms

Junta: A political group that takes power by force, typically comprised of military leaders who assume control over the government after a coup.

Authoritarianism: A political system characterized by the concentration of power in a single authority, often limiting individual freedoms and political pluralism.

Human Rights Violations: Actions taken by governments or organizations that infringe upon the fundamental rights and freedoms entitled to individuals, commonly observed under military dictatorships.