Democracy and Democratization in Comparative Perspective

Course Overview

Why do some countries become and stay democratic, while others slide into authoritarianism? What explains the global wave of democratic backsliding we are witnessing today?

This intensive 8-week course explores the causes, processes, and consequences of democratization across regions and historical periods. Drawing on cutting-edge political science theories and vivid historical and contemporary case studies, you’ll analyze why democracies emerge, consolidate, erode, or collapse — and how this shapes global politics today.

Led by a PhD expert in comparative politics, the course covers classic theories (modernization, transitology, institutional design) and applies them to real-world transitions, including Southern Europe’s third wave, Latin America’s bureaucratic-authoritarian cycles, post-communist trajectories, the Arab Spring, the rise of populist illiberalism in established democracies, and the global influence of China’s model of authoritarian capitalism, which blends economic development without democratization.

In addition, we’ll examine authoritarian resilience in China, exploring how its economic model has influenced global geopolitics, as well as the recent military takeovers in Western Africa.

What You’ll Learn

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

1. Define and measure democracy using the latest global datasets and indices.
2. Compare different models of democracy and varieties of non-democratic regimes.
3. Explain key theories of democratization and democratic breakdown.
4. Analyze the role of economic development, political culture, elites, civil society, and international factors in regime change.
5. Assess democratic consolidation, backsliding, and the rise of hybrid and populist regimes.
6. Apply theoretical frameworks to concrete cases from every continent.
7. Critically evaluate democracy promotion policies and their real-world impact.

How You’ll Learn

• 16 hours of live, interactive Zoom classes (recorded for flexibility).
• Small cohort (max 18 participants) for genuine discussion and personalized feedback.
• Weekly case studies, simulations, group projects, and Q&A with the instructor.
• Curated readings, datasets, and multimedia resources.
• A global classroom — connect with learners from every continent.

 Why Enroll Now?

·         Limited seats (max 15 per time slot) — cohorts fill quickly.

·         Two time options designed for learners across time zones.

·         University-level content at an accessible price.

·         In an era of democratic recession, these insights have never been more urgent.

Ready to understand — and help shape — the fate of democracy in the 21st century? We look forward to welcoming you!

Who Should Enroll?

• Beginners curious about why democracy is in crisis.
• University students in political science, international relations, or area studies.
• Policy professionals, diplomats, NGO workers, and journalists.
• Engaged citizens wanting to understand populism, elections, and authoritarian trends.
• Lifelong learners from anywhere in the world.

No prior knowledge required — just curiosity about the fate of democracy in the 21st century.