Defeating Authoritarian Leaders in Postcommunist Countries pdf

“Defeating Authoritarian Leaders in Postcommunist Countries is a major contribution to debates on regime transition. Bunce and Wolchik make the paradigmatic case that opposition creativity, innovation, and ambition are central to successful democratization. The book also offers a refreshing take on democratic diffusion. Contrary to the ‘high altitude’ approach taken by so many studies, this book, based on primary research in at least eleven countries, shows us exactly how diffusion takes place and the array of domestic and external actors who play a critical role in its success or failure. This book will be of enormous interest to scholars of emocratization and essential reading for those concerned with strengthening democratic institutions in the world today.” ' ' ' – Lucan A. Way, University of Toronto