In this eye-opening episode, Young Central: The Podcast investigates "democratic backsliding"—the steady weakening of democratic principles and institutions affecting countries worldwide, from established democracies to emerging ones. This episode breaks down two major forms of backsliding: grievance-fueled illiberalism, where political leaders capitalize on societal grievances and target minorities to erode democratic norms, and opportunistic authoritarianism, where elected officials dismantle checks and balances to secure power.

Listeners will explore the driving forces behind democratic backsliding, including extreme political polarization, authoritarian personalities, and the disruptive influence of powerful autocratic states like Russia and China. With insights into the dynamics at play, this episode underscores the fragile nature of democracy and calls for awareness, vigilance, and active participation in protecting democratic values for future generations.