There is talk that autocracy is on the march, seeking to make converts abroad. The fear is that international democracy promotion now faces increasing international competition, adding to its growing difficulties in the face of opposition to democratic reform inside countries.

This paper by Peter Burnell argues that if democracy promotion is to devise an appropriate response then we need to examine more closely the nature of the threat. The challenge takes different forms. And although the export of autocracy should not be exaggerated, other ways in which authoritarian rule and values are being spread do merit serious attention.

Available for download here.