Panel Discussion: How to Resist Authoritarianism Without Burning Out
June 17, 2025
How to Resist Authoritarianism Without Burning Out
As repression deepens across the globe, people are resisting—not with megaphones or viral headlines, but with strategic action, unlikely alliances and the quiet power of staying put.
That was the heart of a live conversation we hosted on 2 June 2025. Moderated by Juanita Esguerra Rezk, PhD, Head of Research at Right Livelihood, the discussion featured:
Jamila Raqib, Executive Director of the Albert Einstein Institution and legacy holder of 2012 Right Livelihood Laureate Gene Sharp, the world’s foremost thinker on strategic nonviolent action
Kerstin Bergeå, Chair of Svenska Freds, Sweden’s largest and the world’s oldest peace organisation
In under 40 minutes, they unpacked what it takes to build resistance movements that last, and win.
Watch the panel discussion here.
A plan, not just a protest
“We’re not just resisting the current system,” said Raqib. “We need a positive vision that meets people’s needs, one that builds recruitment and reminds people they’re not alone.”
She spoke about the need for movements to shift from reacting to planning:
“Our opponents are strategic. They have a playbook. It’s to throw us off balance, to keep us constantly reacting with every new violation.”
Raqib shared lessons from Bangladesh and Serbia, where student-led nonviolent uprisings, grounded in clear demands and broad support, are forcing political change and preparing for long-term transformation.
From the streets to the stage: building cultural power
Bergeå stressed that movements can’t win alone, and they definitely can’t win quietly.
“Including actors, artists and comedians gives us visibility in new spaces,” she said. “It shows we are part of the culture, not separate from it.”
She described how Svenska Freds worked with Fridays for Future and actor Gustav Skarsgård to challenge Sweden’s arms trade, even filibustering a weapons manufacturer’s general meeting by asking critical questions for 30 minutes straight.
“Culture is where people live,” she added. “It helps us show there’s an alternative.”
Gender isn’t a bonus. It’s a backbone.
The role of gender was front and centre. Both speakers underlined that inclusive leadership isn’t just ethical. It’s strategic.
“We tend to think that women’s inclusion is a nice thing we do,” said Raqib. “But actually, it’s strategically important. Movements are more disciplined with the participation of women.”
She pointed out that authoritarian regimes actively target women with sexual violence to break movements apart, because they know how powerful women’s leadership is.
Bergeå added, “It’s the means that matter, not just the result. If the process is inclusive, the peace will be more sustainable. And we have data to prove that.”
Fear is real. But it’s not the end.
When it comes to fear, Raqib was clear: “Fear is a tool of the authoritarians. Even the threat of punishment makes people comply before it’s even used.”
Her advice? “Pick methods that reduce risk. Boycotts, stay-at-home actions—these are powerful, and they don’t invite the same repression.”
Bergeå added that community is key: “Some of us take more risk than others. But no one should have to feel alone, even if they’re in jail. Support groups are a powerful tool.”
What now?
For those feeling overwhelmed but ready to act, the speakers offered grounded advice.
“Don’t lose hope,” said Bergeå. “Choose a target. Strategise. Take yourself seriously.”
Raqib echoed the call to action: “You’re not alone. You have a powerful tool. Our job is to be imaginative, systematic and strategic.”
Because true resistance means more than showing up. It means being ready to act.