Autocratization
A gradual shift from democratic governance toward authoritarian rule, where political power becomes less constrained and more arbitrary.
A process of structural government transition from democracy toward authoritarianism, in which the exercise of political power becomes progressively less limited and more arbitrary and repressive. It typically restricts space for public contest and political participation in government selection, often occurring incrementally rather than through sudden institutional collapse.
What this means in real life
When a government slowly weakens court independence, controls media narratives, and narrows protest rights over years rather than overnight, citizens wake up in a state they no longer recognize as democratic—even though no single dramatic coup occurred.
What it isn’t
This is not a sudden military coup or violent overthrow. It is a gradual institutional erosion that can feel invisible while happening, making it distinct from abrupt regime change.
Commonly misused online
Social media often conflates any unpopular government policy with autocratization, when the term specifically describes systematic weakening of democratic institutions and checks on power over time.
Based on 1 reference source, including Wikipedia. Last verified July 16, 2026.