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