The common wisdom that autocrats are prevailing in the global contest with democracy is simplistic. Yes, some still cling to power, but the dangers of autocratic rule have become glaringly apparent. Their methods for retaining power are increasingly desperate, and the publics in their countries are repeatedly rejecting their rule. Roth will discuss how proponents of democracy should support it more consistently abroad and will present a better model for democratic rule at home. 

A reception will follow the lecture. 

This event is co-sponsored by the Future of Democracy Initiative at the UC Institute for Global Conflict and Cooperation.

About the Elizabeth H.L. Bonkowsky Memorial Lecture Series

This lecture series was established by the Bonkowsky family at the UC San Diego School of Global Policy and Strategy in 2023 in honor of Dr. Elizabeth Leitch Bonkowsky. The series will promote public understanding and advocacy of democratic and human rights work across the globe. Dr. Bonkowsky was a diplomat whose numerous award-winning works while at the U.S. State Department were key for statehood and independence of democratic Kosovo. She also helped to increase democracy and human rights work in Serbia, Bosnia and Croatia and in former communist East Germany. Dr. Bonkowsky completed graduate work at Columbia, Harvard and Boston University and served as president of the UC San Diego Oceanids and as a leader in many church and civic activities. She was a history professor at the University of Massachusetts and earlier taught in New York City's public schools.