Episode 36: Transitology in the 21st Century with Philippe C. Schmitter

In this episode, Ivan Vejvoda is joined by Philippe C. Schmitter to discuss the current state and future of democracy, particularly in the context of rising populism and authoritarianism. Known for his influential works on transitions from authoritarian rule and the democratization of the European Union, Schmitter explores the impact of the EU's parliamentary elections, the return of the Labour Party to power in the UK, as well as the rise of nationalism and identity politics.

Schmitter offers insights into the concept of "transitology" and its relevance today, drawing parallels between past transitions from authoritarian regimes and current political trends. The discussion also touches on the challenges of liberal democracy, the role of political parties, and the effects of globalization on economic and political systems. Schmitter emphasizes the need to reinvent representation and control the behavior of global finance to address rising inequality and populism.

The conversation highlights the importance of local governance and the potential benefits of immigration, despite deep rooted resistance, racism and xenophobia. The conversation concludes with and examination of the future of Europe, the implications of differentiated integration, and the role of governance in maintaining democratic legitimacy.

Johan-Skytte-Prize winner Philippe Schmitter is an Emeritus Professor of the Department of Political and Social Sciences at the European University Institute in Florence. Celebrated for his work on democracy, democratic transitions, authoritarianism, and populism, Schmitter has authored influential books such as "Transitions from Authoritarian Rule: Tentative Conclusions About Uncertain Democracies" and "How to Democratize the European Union and Why Bother?" His research continues to shape the field of comparative politics.

See Phillipe's full details and publication history @ www.eui.eu

Ivan Vejvoda  is Head of the Europe's Futures program at the Institute for Human Sciences (IWM Vienna) implemented in partnership with ERSTE Foundation. The program is dedicated to the cultivation of knowledge and the generation of ideas addressing pivotal challenges confronting Europe and the European Union: nexus of borders and migration, deterioration in rule of law and democracy and European Union’s enlargement prospects.

The Institute for Human Sciences (IWM Vienna) is an institute of advanced studies in the humanities and social sciences. Founded as a place of encounter in 1982 by a young Polish philosopher, Krzysztof Michalski, and two German colleagues in neutral Austria, its initial mission was to create a meeting place for dissenting thinkers of Eastern Europe and prominent scholars from the West.

Since then it has promoted intellectual exchange across disciplines, between academia and society, and among regions that now embrace the Global South and North. The IWM is an independent and non-partisan institution, and proudly so. All of our fellows, visiting and permanent, pursue their own research in an environment designed to enrich their work and to render it more accessible within and beyond academia.

For further information about the Institute:

https://www.iwm.at/