Transforming the neoliberal state in times of crisis: pathways of democratization and sustainabilization

Western liberal societies are currently facing two intertwined crises: a crisis of democracy and a crisis of sustainability. In this article, we argue that this dual crisis has its roots in neoliberalism and neoliberal statehood. While the state is partly complicit in bringing about the crisis, it can also play a pivotal role in addressing it. However, to do so, it must fundamentally transform its institutional structures and processes to become more democratic and sustainable. Based on an analysis of the current crises and the role of the neoliberal state, we outline the normative contours of sustainable statehood and clarify its democratic prerequisites. Drawing on an examination of four practical transformation pathways to a democratic and sustainable state, we argue that initial steps toward this ideal may already be underway. We conclude by discussing the state’s potential and limitations in promoting a virtuous cycle of “democratization” and “sustainabilization” to overcome the current double crisis.