NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER From the Pulitzer-prize winning author, an alarming account of how autocracies work together to undermine the democratic world, and how we should organize to defeat them "A masterful guide to the new age of authoritarianism... clear-sighted and fearless… a masterclass in the marriage of dodgy government to international criminality… (both) deeply disturbing . ”—John Simpson, The Guardian " Especially timely.

"—The Washington Post We think we know what an autocratic state looks like: There is an all-powerful leader at the top. He controls the police. The police threaten the people with violence.

There are evil collaborators, and maybe some brave dissidents. But in the 21st century, that bears little resemblance to reality. Nowadays, autocracies are underpinned not by one dictator, but by sophisticated networks composed of kleptocratic financial structures, surveillance technologies, and professional propagandists, all of which operate across multiple regimes, from China to Russia to Iran.

Corrupt companies in one country do business with corrupt companies in another. The police in one country can arm and train the police in another, and propagandists share resources and themes, pounding home the same messages about the weakness of democracy and the evil of America. International condemnation and economic sanctions cannot move the autocrats.

Even popular opposition movements, from Venezuela to Hong Kong to Moscow, don't stand a chance. The members of Autocracy, Inc, aren't linked by a unifying ideology, like communism, but rather a common desire for power, wealth, and impunity. In this urgent treatise, which evokes George Kennan's essay calling for "containment" of the Soviet Union, Anne Applebaum calls for the democracies to fundamentally reorient their policies to fight a new kind of threat.

In a world marked by turbulent political shifts, "Autocracy, Inc.: The Dictators Who Want to Run the World" takes readers on a compelling journey into the minds and strategies of modern-day autocrats. Through a blend of insightful analysis and riveting storytelling, the book unveils how these leaders manipulate power structures and exploit global systems to extend their rule. The narrative not only explores the machinations behind closed doors but also delves into the implications for democratic societies worldwide.

Readers are invited to examine the intricate dance of diplomacy, deception, and dominance in an era where authoritative governance poses a profound challenge to global stability.

Understanding contemporary autocrats is crucial for anticipating political shifts and controlling power. Dictatorial regimes utilize advanced technologies to influence and manipulate public opinion globally. Democracies face unprecedented threats from organized autocratic strategies exploiting global vulnerabilities.

Delving deep into the psyche of modern dictators this book unravels the complexities of their governance. It examines how these leaders consolidate power by eroding democratic norms and controlling narratives. Through captivating case studies the book reveals the calculated risks they take to maintain influence.

\nThis exploration goes beyond mere politics highlighting the economic networks underpinning authoritarian regimes. Readers gain insight into how autocrats manipulate international organizations and financial systems to bolster their control. These global strategies pose a significant challenge to established democratic frameworks.

\nThe book sheds light on advanced technologies employed by autocratic regimes to manipulate information and sway public opinion. It discusses how social media and mass surveillance become tools of suppression reshaping political landscapes in their favor. \nThe narrative captures the response of democratic societies to this rising tide of autocracy.

By dissecting the evolving tactics used to counter these threats the book emphasizes the necessity of activism and vigilance. It provides hope for sustaining democratic principles amidst authoritarian encroachment. \nReaders are engaged in an essential discourse on the future of global governance where authoritarians and democrats clash.

This thoughtful examination serves as both a cautionary tale and a call to defend the core values of freedom and transparency.

This book offers a unique lens into the opaque world of authoritarian regimes combining scholarly insights with compelling storytelling By uncovering the intricate web of tactics used by dictators it provides an unprecedented view of their strategic playbook It distinguishes itself by focusing on the role of technology in modern autocratic strategies The book rigorously examines how digital tools are leveraged for control offering readers a critical understanding of the cyber battlegrounds shaping global governance Unlike traditional analyses this narrative interlaces the voices of resistance highlighting grassroots movements countering autocratic maneuvers Through these inspiring stories readers explore the enduring fight for democracy and the innovative strategies employed to confront authoritarian powers.