Autocratic States: Characteristics, Examples, and Global Impact (Edexcel A-Level Politics): Flashcards

Power concentrated in single ruler/small group; no democratic input or consent

Power in single unelected person/party, no checks or balances

Hereditary or seized by force; not subject to accountability

Kim Jong Un (family dynasty)

No free/fair elections; heavily manipulated to maintain power

Not tolerated; face imprisonment, torture, or execution

Speech, assembly, and press; state controls media

Absent; no independent legislature, judiciary, or parliament

Vladimir Putin (power centralized in presidency)

Limited/isolationist; only if serves strategic interests

Hard power: violence, threats, and military force

Juche

Energy resources (threatening to cut off/offering favourable deals)

Destabilizing; unpredictable behaviour, aggressive policies

Annexation of Crimea (destabilized post-Cold War order)