About Us

The Institute for the Study of Modern Authoritarianism (ISMA) is a public policy organization committed to defending free societies and resisting the global rise of illiberalism.

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At ISMA, We Defend Democracy Through Ideas

Founded in 2023, the Institute for the Study of Modern Authoritarianism is committed to defending free societies and opposing the worldwide slide into illiberalism. Our work brings together scholars, journalists, and advocates to expose authoritarian trends and champion liberal democratic principles.

We believe that defending democracy starts with intellectual clarity, cross-ideological collaboration, and public engagement. Through our programs, publications, and events, we work to build a more informed and resilient global community.

Meet the Team

Shikha Dalmia

Founder & President

Shikha founded ISMA in 2023 with the aim of preventing the overtaking of liberal democracies by religious, ethnic, and populist nationalist movements.

Berny Belvedere

Executive Director

Berny joined The UnPopulist in the fall of 2023 as its senior editor, and in the same year came on board at ISMA as its executive director.

Landry Ayres

Creative Director

Landry Ayres is Creative Director at ISMA and Managing Editor/Senior Producer at The UnPopulist.

Thomas Shull

Survey Research Director

Thomas Shull is editor-at-large of The UnPopulist and survey research director for ISMA.

Meet the Board

Emily Chamlee-Wright

Institute for Humane Studies

Robin Stone

William and Flora Hewlett Foundation

Eli Lehrer

Creative Director

William Kristol

The Bulwark

What People Are Saying

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