Democratic Backsliding and Security Governance

The relationship between democratic backsliding and security governance requires special attention for many reasons. This study explores that relationship by examining how security governance can become both a tool and a victim under authoritarian populists. The confrontation between populist leaders and bureaucrats arises when bureaucrats are forced to choose between professional objectivity and adherence to the leader’s will. In the final section, the study elaborates on a model developed following empirical research conducted under the supervision of one of the authors.