The Resurgence of Fascism: A Global Challenge to Democratic Values in 2025

The Growing Threat to Democratic Institutions

Fascist movements have gained significant support worldwide, even in European nations where they were previously rejected. A ‘New Despotism’ has emerged, utilizing democratic structures while fostering mass psychology reminiscent of historical fascism.

This resurgence has manifested in established democracies, where public dissatisfaction with inequality and social exclusion has been exploited by authoritarian figures. These leaders typically undermine the rule of law, targeting independent judiciary systems, press freedom, cultural institutions, higher education, and scientific research.

Contemporary Manifestations

Modern fascist movements differ from their historical counterparts by operating through constitutional systems, legal structures, and mass media to advance their ideology. They seek not just public tolerance but enthusiastic endorsement of their policies, often demanding mass support even in the face of obvious deception.

In the United States, research indicates that between 25-30 percent of Americans have consistently shown support for racial and religious hierarchies, belief in conspiracy theories, distrust in democratic institutions, and backing of antidemocratic behavior. Experts argue that the current threats to American democracy are at unprecedented levels.

Global Response and Democratic Resilience

Despite these challenges, democratic societies retain the potential for improvement and progress. They provide the foundation for intellectual and cultural advancement, allowing scientific discoveries to flourish and knowledge to grow. Crucially, democracies preserve the freedom to challenge ideas and question power structures.

Democratic institutions remain the best framework for addressing social injustices and fulfilling post-war promises of fundamental rights. Without these structures, humanity risks increasing inequality, injustice, and potential catastrophe, particularly in addressing critical issues like climate change, which many new fascist movements actively deny.

Looking Forward

In our interconnected world, democracy cannot exist in isolation. International cooperation depends on implementing democratic principles and multilateralism between nations, supported by multi-stakeholder processes for healthy societies. The rule of law must extend beyond borders to ensure respect for international treaties, human rights conventions, and peace agreements.