The politics of protest in authoritarian regimes. A critical review

Abstract

Introduction: Through a critical review of recent literature, the essay explores the relationship between contentious protest and authoritarian regimes and examines the dynamics and consequences that emerge during the political conflict. Methods: three elements that scholars have identified as key in this relationship are discussed: the political opportunities and threats, cycles of protest and the sustainability of the social movements, and the relationship between state violence and collective action. Results: Recurrence of protest in repressive regimes shows the ability of civil society to articulate these contentious actions. Discussion: However, paths and results depend, on the one hand, on the political features of the regime and on the competence of the government to respond to collective challenges; and, on the other hand, on the ability of opponents to mount cycles of protest that are dense in participation during a significant period, the type of tactics adopted, and the adaptability and resilience to the State violence.