NEW YORK – The unfolding legal proceedings against former Brazilian‌ President Jair Bolsonaro are forcing a⁤ critical​ global conversation: why are democratic​ norms under such intense strain,​ and why do figures⁤ like Bolsonaro⁤ and former US President Donald Trump, both accused ⁣of attempting to subvert election results, face drastically diffrent⁢ consequences?

Striking Similarities in Tactics

Media attention has ⁤rightly⁣ focused on the unsettling parallels between Bolsonaro and Trump. Both leaders, positioned ​as political ⁣outsiders, ascended to‌ power during a period marked by the ⁣COVID-19 ‌pandemic. A defining characteristic of their tenures was a consistent rejection of scientific consensus, openly embracing denialism regarding both medical realities and the climate crisis.

Crucially, both Bolsonaro and ​trump repeatedly and publicly questioned the integrity of their respective electoral systems, pre-emptively declaring they ⁣would not accept defeat if ⁤the outcome was unfavorable. Following their losses at the polls, both leaders are alleged to have incited their supporters to engage in violent⁣ acts aimed at ​overturning ⁤the democratic process – culminating in the storming of the US Capitol in January⁤ 2021 and the attacks​ on Brazil’s national legislature on January 8, 2023.

The Rise of Competitive ⁣Authoritarianism

Political scientist Pedro abramovay argues that both Bolsonaro and Trump are emblematic of a broader trend: the rise of “competitive authoritarianism.” This phenomenon involves leaders who utilize democratic institutions⁤ while simultaneously undermining the principles of free and fair elections, independent judiciaries, and a vibrant civil society.

the key difference, however, lies in the⁣ institutional strength and responsiveness of each nation’s⁢ democratic safeguards. While the US system, despite‌ it’s vulnerabilities, ultimately held against the attempted insurrection, Brazil’s democratic institutions faced a more‌ precarious situation, leading to ongoing investigations and legal challenges for Bolsonaro.

A​ Global‍ Warning

The ​contrasting fates of Bolsonaro and Trump serve as a stark warning to democracies worldwide. The willingness of political leaders to exploit societal divisions,​ spread disinformation, and incite violence poses ‍an existential threat to the rule of law. The ability to hold such leaders ‍accountable, and to strengthen the institutions that protect democratic ⁢processes, is paramount.

This isn’t simply ⁣a story about two individuals; it’s a story ⁣about the fragility of democracy⁢ itself, and the urgent need for vigilance in the face ⁢of rising authoritarian⁣ tendencies.