With the Breakdown of Democracy Comes the Rise of 'New Despotism' Globally In his latest book, 'The New Despotism', eminent scholar of democracy John Keane explores how populist leaders across the globe are holding sway on their "subjects", and offers ideas for challenging the new despots. From left to right: US President Donald Trup, Brazil President Jair Bolsonaro, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson (all Reuters); Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi (PTI). World16/Dec/2020 Regardless of their political persuasion, astute observers of world politics almost unanimously agree that democracy and democratic institutions across the globe are under an eclipse. In countries as disparate as the Philippines, Turkey, Hungary, Poland, Brazil, Tajikistan, China, Russia, Vietnam and Saudi Arabia, one sees the attenuation of power-sharing institutions, lack of accountability, rampant electoral malpractices, the rising tide of corruption and cronyism, and systematic attempts to squelch dissent. That established democracies like the United States, India and the United Kingdom are also not immune to this malaise only underscores its severity.