How opposition cities successfully challenge illiberal populist regimes: comparing Istanbul, Budapest and Warsaw

In 2018–2019 Budapest, Warsaw and Istanbul elected opposition mayors vowing to deepen democracy. Why were Istanbul and Warsaw more successful in achieving their goals by the end of 2024? As illiberal populist regimes function as tight networks, capturing a major city allows the opposition to target key network elements. Opposition mayors seek to increase information, create effective and inclusive governance, limit the regime’s clientelism, and (re)create social solidarity. Central governments respond with negative media and weakening the cities’ finances and responsibilities. This article finds city effectiveness in confronting illiberal populist regimes depends on the degree of city government capacity and opposition unity.