Description
Book SynopsisResisting Backsliding examines how opposition strategies can help or hinder potential autocrats erode democracy. Focusing on Hugo Chávez in Venezuela and Alvaro Uribe in Colombia, the book shows that the strategies and goals of the opposition are key to understanding why some executives successfully erode democracy while others do not.
Trade Review'At a time when democracy is under threat around the world, Gamboa's impressively researched and cogently argued book about Venezuela and Colombia spotlights how a democratic opposition that plays by the institutional rules can thwart the ambitions of aspiring autocrats to consolidate power. Resisting Backsliding is essential reading for students of comparative democracies.' Frances Hagopian, Harvard University
'The most urgent question for democrats today is not 'Why do voters support leaders with authoritarian aspirations?' but 'How can we confront those leaders once they are in power?' Gamboa offers answers grounded in rigorous comparative research and in sound normative principles. This book charts the path for a new research agenda.' Aníbal Pérez-Liñán, University of Notre Dame
'Although democratic erosion has generated much scholarly attention in recent years, we still know little about how to stop it. Resisting Backsliding helps fill that gap. In this well-researched and carefully argued book, Laura Gamboa highlights the critical role of opposition strategy in determining whether elected autocrats succeed or fail. This book is a must-read for anyone concerned about democratic backsliding in the contemporary world.' Steven Levitsky, Harvard University
Table of Contents1. Introduction; 2, Opposition Strategies Against the Erosion of Democracy, 3, Electing Leaders with Hegemonic Aspirations; 4, 'Chávez Vete Ya': The Erosion of Democracy in Venezuela; 5, Preventing the Erosion of Democracy in Colombia; 6, Opposition Strategies Elsewhere; 7, Conclusion.
