South Korea was plunged into chaos when President Yoon Suk-yeol declared martial law in an authoritarian move supported by the military to fend off legal challenges. The decision was seen as a throwback to past dictatorial regimes and caught many off guard. However, the article argues that authoritarianism is on the rise globally, with leaders like Yoon, inspired by figures like Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Yoon’s attempt to consolidate power by silencing opposition and controlling the military mirrors tactics employed by Trump and other strongmen. The article suggests that Yoon was emboldened by the lack of international accountability for leaders like Netanyahu, leading him to believe he could get away with his actions. However, South Korean lawmakers and citizens rose up against Yoon’s attempt at a power grab, eventually leading to his potential impeachment.
The article warns against the complacency of liberal democracies and emphasizes the need for vigilance against the rise of authoritarian leaders. It highlights the lack of real commitment to democratic values in some leaders and calls for honesty in confronting the threat of extremism. The author’s views do not necessarily reflect Al Jazeera’s stance, but the message is clear: authoritarianism must be opposed, and freedom and democracy defended at all costs.
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